Branson Police Department 2012 Quick Stats
Branson PD Stops Total 2012 : 7323
Branson PD Searches Total 2012 : 229
Branson PD Search Rate 2012 :3.13%
Searches Resulting In Contraband 2012 : 26.2%
Branson PD Arrest Rate 2.99%
Showing posts with label Branson Crime. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Branson Crime. Show all posts
Branson Police Department - Search and Arrest Stats 2012 By Gender Race
Branson Police Department 2012 Quick Stats
Branson PD Stops Total 2012 : 7323
Branson PD Searches Total 2012 : 229
Branson PD Search Rate 2012 :3.13%
Searches Resulting In Contraband 2012 : 26.2%
Branson PD Arrest Rate 2.99%
Branson Seeks Identity / Reward for Arsonist - 5 Fires Intentionally Set
Date: June 18, 2013
Contact: Ted Martin, Fire Chief (417) 243-2790, office or (417) 332-7112, cell
BRANSON FIRE DEPARTMENT CONTINUES INVESTIGATION ON FIVE INTENTIONALLY SET FIRES
Branson Firefighters responded to a report of a commercial building fire at Coffelt Country Crossroads on Monday evening. Reported initially as a building on fire adjacent to the Acrobats of China Theater parking lot, firefighters discovered a pick-up on fire in the theater parking lot plus three separate buildings on the Coffelt property.
“As this was reported as a commercial building fire, we had two engines and a ladder truck responding plus
mutual aid fire apparatus,” stated Fire Chief Ted Martin. “The firefighters did an excellent job containing all the fires to the area of origin. Due the nature of the older buildings with several additions, firefighters spent several hours checking for fire extension, ventilating the smoke, and assisting the building property owners with salvaging their property and contents,” added Martin. A fourth business on the property reported fire damage to several tables on their snack bar as the fires self-extinguished.
Fire investigators from the fire department along with a Missouri State Fire Marshal started the fire investigation process after the fires were extinguished. “Fire investigators worked to eliminate all possible accidental causes and believe the fires to be intentionally set,” stated Martin. The fire department is asking any witnesses who might have seen any suspicious activity at the Coffelt property between 8:45 and 9:00pm to contact the Branson Police Department at (417) 334-3300. Tips leading to the solving of this fire incident may be eligible for a cash reward through the Missouri Advisory Committee on Arson Prevention by calling 1-800-39-ARSON or through their web site at www.MACAP.org.
The businesses at the Coffelt property were closed at the time of the fire and there were no reported injuries.
The 2013 Chevrolet pick-up was destroyed at a value of $40,000 and the four buildings damaged by the fire had early damage estimates of approximately $35,00
Branson Police Identify Murder Suspect - Branson Police Chief Report
A 45 year-old man from Stockton, Missouri is in custody in connection to the death of Stacy A. (Hopkins) Birmingham, age 42, of Omaha, Arkansas. The victim was discovered deceased at the Country Bunkhouse Motel, located at 3125 W. State Highway 76 on Thursday.Following leads developed during the investigation of the incident, the suspect was located in Tulsa, Oklahoma and was taken into custody shortly after 11 p.m. last night by the fugitive division of the Tulsa Police Department.Paperwork is being forwarded to the Taney County Prosecutor’s Office for the determination of charges. The suspect, who remains in custody in Oklahoma at this time, is expected to waive extradition, at which time he will be transported back to Taney County.
Meth Bust on Presley Street - Cover Up Delays Publication
Branson Police Chief Carroll McCollough went to great effort to cover-up the bust that occurred on Hwy 76 close to a mile from the mayor's theater on Hwy 76.
The meth lab bust occurred at the Payless Inn across from Music City Center and serves as a residence for mostly foreign seasonal workers in addition to housing some of Branson's poorest residents.
Word on the street was that three people were busted and that officials were looking for 11 more suspects. In order to allow the police to investigate and find participants, no Freedom of Information Act requests were made to the Branson Police Department until weeks after the raid was conducted.
The publication you're reading is currently the only Branson outlet where the journalistic process to cover stories is actively being utilized.
Witnesses claim amphetamines were being manufactured in two hotel rooms which were raided at the Payless Inn on the 76 strip.
The dangerous chemicals utilized to produce meth have traditionally resulted in a Haz-mat team entering the facility to clean -up before citizens are allowed to enter the building.
None of the mostly black residents were evacuated nor has an incident report been discovered by local health officials.
Branson Police Chief Carroll McCollough was issued a Sunshine Request Form through Branson Police Department two weeks ago. The document asked for Meth Lab Busts on or near the 22nd of July. McCollough waited until the maximum time allotted by law, After the unnecessary delay McCollough asserted:
"We checked the record and found there were no Meth Labs found in Branson on the 22nd, 23rd or 24th of July"
At a community overhaul buy-in meeting Branson Police Chief Carroll McCollough accompanied by Branson Mayor Raeanne Presley and real estate agent Karen Best were present when I tried to pull McCollough to the side to ask if publishing the report of the meth bust was being withheld for investigative purposes.
McCollough was arrogant in his response publicly acting in a humiliating manner.
A specific query was made for all "drug related" incidents on the 21st of July. The documents had 90% of the information blocked out for a charge of $10.70 and a week delay.
While most people believe this information is a public record I'm currently being charged for the time it takes for the files to be censored, printing costs, research time and the documents are being held for 72 hours every time a request is made.
While most American municipalities are obedient to state and federal laws that allow access to incident reports, Branson's leaders are actively censoring their activities through price gouging, censorship and in many cases outright lying.
Slowing the meth industry is a noble cause but if it puts innocent civilians in danger we should reconsider our methods.
Though many people believe government corruption is inevitable it should never be accepted, ignored or encouraged as it puts each of us and democracy itself in danger.
Branson Tourists Asked to Use HWY 248 instead of 65 direct to 76 Blvd Exit While Negotiators Talk Murder Suspect From Hotel Room
View Branson Police Standoff With Murder Suspect in a larger mapBranson officials have closed a highly trafficked portion of the 76 strip starting at the 76/65 interchange north to Roark. Branson Public Relations Administrator Jerry Adams is at the scene and made a call by cell phone minutes ago.
The 76 strip is flowing freely with minimal traffic center strip less than a mile from the scene where 51 year old Mark Simmons, a murder suspect with a warrant from Texas has maintained phone contact with police offers in a standoff that is reaching its 8th hour.
Theater schedules dictate incoming traffic will increase dramatically over the next few hours and tourists are advised to exit on 248 just north of the 76/65 off-ramp. In order to bring peaceful resolution to a potentially dangerous situation, the Branson police department is maintaining a barrier (outlined in the map above) as long as Simmons maintains voice contact.
The Branson Police deparment was following up leads from a robbery that occurred Sunday night which led them to a room on the 76 strip yards from the 65 interchange.
After a Branson police officer made contact with Simmons, Texas authorities advised their suspect should be handled as dangerous forcing an evacuation to prevent casualties or harm to potential bystanders. The nature of a weapon Simmons might have has not been released by authorities.
Simmons remains holed up at the Walnut Lane Hotel (see southern marker on map above)without any known hostages.
Identified as a person of interest, a Texas warrant was issued in connection with an April murder. The victim was found in a Texan houme that was set ablaze. Investigators to the scene determined the burned body was a week old by the time the fire was set.
Pete Newman - Former Kanakuk Counselor Statement to Judge Orr at Sentencing (Full video) 1 of 3 Posts
Former Kanakuk counselor Pete Newman received two life sentences plus thirty years handed down from Circuit Judge Mark Orr for sexually abusing children at the Branson based Christian Camp..
The total number of children sexually abused by Pete Newman is unknown; however, law enforcement officials in several states are taking or considering taking action against against the convicted child sex offender.
The probable cause statement which alludes to molestation that occurred during Bible study sessions hosted at Newman's house among other places including religious sanctuaries on the Kanakuk property.
A first reaction and the probable cause statement was posted on the Branson News Blog in September 2009.
Branson Landing Bomb Disarmed by Robot
An explosive device was detonated via robotic assist last night at the Branson Landing.
Branson Public Relation spokesman Jerry Adams attributed a Branson Landing security guard's initiative to the quick capture of two individuals, soon to be indicted, responsible for the bombs presence at the TIF funded facility.
The expense of the private security force is partly financed under an agreement with the City of Branson.
The first suspect has been identified as a Florida resident who fled from an ATM machine after being approached by the Branson Landing security guard.
After being contacted, the Branson Police Department alerted federal agents from the Alcohol Tabacco and Firearms (ATF). The ATF contacted the Springfield Fire Department who used robotic equipment to disarm a homemade pipe bomb.
The Branson Landing security guard tracked down the suspect using surveillance footage from the Promade Hilton, situated 100 yards from where the bomb was found.
Two guests of the Branson Hilton Promenade Hotel were arrested in their rooms. The man, a Florida resident, identified by Branson Landing security was accompanied by a woman from Missouri whose pleas to recover a silver vehicle led Branson Police to the parking garage.
Commercial and Main Street near the Branson Landing parking structure were shut down from 5:30 to 10:00 this morning while the vehicle was inspected. An arsenal of fireworks was found in a silver vehicle which is currently impounded..
Retail shops at the Branson Landing opened on time. (Updating throughout day)
Branson Public Relation spokesman Jerry Adams attributed a Branson Landing security guard's initiative to the quick capture of two individuals, soon to be indicted, responsible for the bombs presence at the TIF funded facility.
The expense of the private security force is partly financed under an agreement with the City of Branson.
The first suspect has been identified as a Florida resident who fled from an ATM machine after being approached by the Branson Landing security guard.
After being contacted, the Branson Police Department alerted federal agents from the Alcohol Tabacco and Firearms (ATF). The ATF contacted the Springfield Fire Department who used robotic equipment to disarm a homemade pipe bomb.
The Branson Landing security guard tracked down the suspect using surveillance footage from the Promade Hilton, situated 100 yards from where the bomb was found.
Two guests of the Branson Hilton Promenade Hotel were arrested in their rooms. The man, a Florida resident, identified by Branson Landing security was accompanied by a woman from Missouri whose pleas to recover a silver vehicle led Branson Police to the parking garage.
Commercial and Main Street near the Branson Landing parking structure were shut down from 5:30 to 10:00 this morning while the vehicle was inspected. An arsenal of fireworks was found in a silver vehicle which is currently impounded..
Retail shops at the Branson Landing opened on time. (Updating throughout day)
Branson Great Southern Bank Robbed - Police on Lookout For Suspect (Press Release)
The Branson Police Department is investigating a report of an armed robbery that occurred at the Great Southern Bank on West Highway 76. Police were called to the bank just after 12:30 this afternoon, upon arrival officers were told by bank staff that a male entered the bank, indicated he was armed with a handgun and demanded money from a teller. After receiving an undisclosed amount of cash, the suspect left the bank and was seen getting into a silver pickup with Arkansas plates. The pickup was last seen leaving the area headed east on highway 76. No one was injured during the incident.
The suspect was described as a white male, early 30’s, approximately 5’8”-5’9”, 160 lbs. He was wearing a brown cap, sunglasses, light colored zip-up jacket, faded jeans and tan work boots.
The investigation continues at this time. Anyone having information to offer regarding this incident is asked to contact the Branson Police Department at 334-3300 or to offer information anonymously, the department’s CATCH line at 334-1085.
Branson Police Catch Robber Inside Store
PRESS RELEASE
BRANSON POLICE DEPARTMENT
On Wednesday evening, November 18, 2009 at approximately 9:15 p. m. Branson officers were called to the H&J Gift Shop located at 3224 West Highway 76 in Branson reference to an individual breaking a window of the business and entering the building.
Upon arrival, officers found a man inside the building. The 38 year-old Branson resident was taken into custody without incident.
Paperwork concerning this incident has been forwarded to the Taney County Prosecutor’s office for the filing of charges.
11-19-09 _____________________________
C. W. McCullough
Chief of Police
Kanakuk 10 Year Staff Member Pete Newman Charged With Sexual Assault Against Children Posts 50k Bond
Over the past couple of days I've been talking to people that were pastored by the former Kanakuk Counselor accused of sexually abusing children through ministry. He was released after a few hours for a mere $50,000 bail or 5,000 cash to a bondsman. His next court appearance is slated for late October. His freedom is contingent on him having no contact with anyone under 17.
This hurts us all.
The shocking details aren't limited to the details submitted to Judge Tony Williams in a probable cause statement drafted by the Taney County Sheriff's Department.
The accusations and charges filed against Peter Newman are being published here.
This hurts a successful ministry.
Kanakuk is internationally known for their high dollar Christian Sports Camp, a charity camp that runs in tandem for inner city kids and international contribution to evangelism.
I recall a sermon by Ted Cunningham of Woodland Hills Community Church, who is heavily affilliated with Kanakuk. Cunningham had recently welcomed a minister who was stripped of the "clothe" for similar circumstances. The congregation fell silent as Cunningham challenged attendents to forgive the hanus acts against children as a Christian. You could hear a pin drop in the room. For many of us an act of harming a child is worse than murdering an adult - impossible to forgive. Perhaps most would be hard pressed to find room for mercy and grace when the crimes hurt the most innocent with such long term effects. Lives ruined.
This breaks my heart.
The final page of the probable cause statement deals a profound blow. The suggestion is Newman's entire ministry could be summed up as a "grooming process" to identify victims. The details of Bible studies, outings, personal interest into leading children to live Christian lives all in vain for the most perverse personal benefits.
This hurts our families.
A friend of mine from the Charismatic Branch of Christian Practice submits Hebrews 4:15:
"For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet was without sin."
For most of us it's hard to imagine what this type of temptation entails - Christian or Athiest alike.
This hurts our community.
From a civic perspective the recent aftermath is equally as shocking. An eight page testimony led Kanakuk Leaders to report the incident which resulted in Newman's firing mid-summer. After leaving Kanakuk, post Newman's admission to crimes against children there are records that he continued to pursue ministry.
Former Missouri Governor Matt Blunt issued a press release promoting the execution of those who abuse children under the age of 12. Missouri Senator Jack Goodman echoed his support for such legislation boasting a move to give life sentences for the crime as a positive move. But most who commit these types of crimes have far lighter sentences.
This hurts our state.
Kanakuk's damage control was swift as Joe White distributed a personal e-mail shortly before a warrant for Peter Newman was issued.
"For the last 34 years, Debbie Jo and I have poured our hearts and prayers into this beloved place. Therefore it is with a heavy heart that I am writing to you today regarding a difficult situation.
"Because you are an important part of the Kanakuk family, we wanted to make you aware that earlier today, the Taney County Missouri prosecutor filed a four-count criminal complaint against our former employee, Pete Newman. As you may know, Pete Newman was employed at K-Kountry. The prosecutor’s criminal charges allege that Pete engaged in sexually inappropriate behavior with adolescent boys, including some who had been Kanakuk Kampers.
"When we became aware of this situation we took immediate action, terminating Pete Newman’s employment. Since that time, we have been working closely with the affected families and appropriate authorities. We reported what we knew to investigators and stayed in contact throughout the process, providing whatever assistance we could. We have also offered our assistance to the impacted families.
"Our fervent prayers are with those who have been impacted. We look forward to the completion of the legal process to ensure that justice is served.
"As you know, Pete Newman's alleged behavior is counter to everything we believe in, everything we stand for and everything we work to instill in the young people who come to us seeking to grow personally and in their relationship with Christ. In fact, for years, we have had very clear policies and extensive training in place for all staff regarding appropriate behavior. Our staff members go through background checks, personal interviews and extensive training on our policies.
"We understand the difficulty that this situation causes you and your children. We pledge to work with you to help you address questions your children may have. Kanakuk is a family, and families often face challenging times. We also pledge that Kanakuk will continue to do all we can to champion efforts to prevent inappropriate behavior from occurring at any camp.
"If you have questions or concerns about this situation, please e-mail me at joe@kanakuk.com.
"Thank you for being part of the Kanakuk family.
"In Christ,
Joe White"
----
On Tuesday, Doug Goodwin, chief operating officer of Kanakuk Kamps, issued this statement:
"Our camp family was deeply saddened and shocked to learn of the allegations involving a former employee. The alleged behavior is counter to everything we believe in, everything we stand for and everything we work to instill in the young people who come to us seeking to grow personally and in their relationship with Christ.
"Our prayers and thoughts are with those who have been affected, and we have worked closely with authorities investigating this matter.
"Most importantly, we have offered our assistance to the alleged victims and their families. We are committed to protecting their privacy, and we cannot say anything further about the allegations at this time.
"For years, we have had very clear policies and extensive training in place for all staff regarding appropriate behavior. Our staff members go through background checks. In light of this situation, we’ve reviewed and, where appropriate, updated our policies to reinforce our commitment to the families we serve."
The "alleged acts" took place over ten years leading many ponder how many children were victims, what damages Kanakuk will have to pay and if the ministry even has a future. After a swine-flu outbreak at their Stone County facility, no-one could imagine anything worse happening to the reputation of the camp.
**At this time, Counselors who keep personal blogs and websites with photos of campers would be wise to edit posts which could identify campers.
Great efforts from the court and the press will be taken to ensure the identities of the victims will remain hidden.
Undoubtedly, there will be more brave young men coming forward as they gain understanding this isn't their fault and it's likely more charges will be filed.
Branson Hookers Solicited on Craig's List
KSPR released new information today regarding the recent prostitution bust in Branson on Oct. 9th a month after the "Branson Missouri Blogger" brought up the problem of human smuggling and prostitution rampant in the Hotel and Restaurant industry during a Branson, Missouri City Council Meeting. Branson Alderman Stephen Marshall doubles as head of a trade organization for the Hotel and Restaurant Industry in Branson.
"Branson police and Combined Ozarks Multi-jurisdictional Enforcement Team or COMET task force officers arrested four women on October 9, 2008.18-year-old Desiree L. Nicks, 44-year-old Tonya Rochell Osborne and 25-year-old Indianda L. Young are charged with misdemeanor prostitution.Officers may have gone undercover but they say the women they arrested were trying to sell sex in very public ways; online and in the phonebook. Branson is known for country music and family entertainment."That's the way we want Branson to stay," Assistant Manager of a Motel Rebecca Shetler says....."You can tell by their attire but you can't just come out and ask them." Shetler says. "You can't ask are you a prostitute because people have rights."Investigators went online to "Craig's List" and clicked on erotic services. They say several women they contacted didn't show up to their sting but Osborne did. They say Osborne charged $200 dollars. Then officers opened up a phone book and called Jamie's Escort Service. They say Nicks and Young were sent to the hotel by a dispatcher named "Sam."...."We see it because we are here everyday." Shetler says. "We just hope the tourists don't see it.",,," Full text archive
Branson Stabbing - Suspect in Custody
Just after 2 a.m. this morning officers were called to the Payless Inn located at 1900 West Highway 76 in reference to a stabbing. Upon arrival officers found a 32 year old male from St. Anns, Jamaica with a stab wound to his lower back. The victim told officers that he and the suspect had been in an argument over a female acquaintance and during the altercation he was stabbed. The victim was transported by ambulance to a hospital in Springfield, Missouri for treatment of a non life-threatening injury.
The suspect, Renaldo Jones, 29 years of age from Hanover, Jamaica was taken into custody without incident. He is currently being held in the Branson City Jail awaiting the filing of formal charges which are expected later today.
Both the suspect and the victim are in the U.S. on work permits.
Taney County Prosecutor Jeff Merrell Convicts Forsyth Couple for not bringing children to school
Taney County Prosecutor's Office Press Release
FORSYTH, MO - Taney County Prosecuting Attorney, Jeffrey M. Merrell announces that
Darlene and Ronald Recklein of Cedar Creek, Missouri both plead guilty without a
plea agreement yesterday to the class C misdemeanor of violating compulsory school attendance.
For the school year period between September 1, 2007 and November 28, 2007 they failed to have their child attend school on a regular basis as required by Missouri law.
In response to the plea of guilty by both parents, Taney County Prosecuting Attorney, Jeffrey M. Merrell said, “As a community we need to take every step possible to make sure our children have access to a quality education, and that access ultimately begins at home with the parents taking responsibility for their children.”
Sentencing in this case is set for May 29th, 2008 at 1:00pm.
The class C misdemeanor of violating compulsory school attending carries a range of punishment of one (1) day to fifteen(15) days in the Taney County Jail and/or a fine not to exceed three-hundred (300) dollars.
FORSYTH, MO - Taney County Prosecuting Attorney, Jeffrey M. Merrell announces that
Darlene and Ronald Recklein of Cedar Creek, Missouri both plead guilty without a
plea agreement yesterday to the class C misdemeanor of violating compulsory school attendance.
For the school year period between September 1, 2007 and November 28, 2007 they failed to have their child attend school on a regular basis as required by Missouri law.
In response to the plea of guilty by both parents, Taney County Prosecuting Attorney, Jeffrey M. Merrell said, “As a community we need to take every step possible to make sure our children have access to a quality education, and that access ultimately begins at home with the parents taking responsibility for their children.”
Sentencing in this case is set for May 29th, 2008 at 1:00pm.
The class C misdemeanor of violating compulsory school attending carries a range of punishment of one (1) day to fifteen(15) days in the Taney County Jail and/or a fine not to exceed three-hundred (300) dollars.
Branson Fire Department Releases Annual Report
The City of Branson issued a press release today regarding Branson Fire Department's annual report.
Branson Police Department Reports Kidnapping
The Branson Police reported an abduction occurred midnight last night at the Branson IHOP on Hwy 76.
The two victims were released unharmed hours after the event occured. Full Report from Branson PD
Fire at Contruction Site
On 2/16/08 at approx. 12:30pm Western Taney Co. firefighters responded to a construction area off of Buena Vista Rd. for report of a dump truck on fire. Upon arrival firefighters found a large dump truck with the cab fully involved. The truck was approx. 1/2 mile off the paved road. It took firefighters several hours to get enough equipment and water to the scene to completely extinguish the fire. Heavy rain made access to the area of the fire difficult for firefighters. The tractor portion of the truck was totally destroyed. Cause of the fire is undetermined. The truck was hauling at the time of the fire. Owner of the vehicle is Tom Boyce Construction.
Photos by Jim Single - WTCFP
Branson resident rescued after being trapped in car after collision
The Missouri Hwy Patrol reported a serious crash 1.5 miles south of Branson last night. The Hwy patrol identified the driver as a 43 year old male named Randy W Veach of Branson who was taken to St. Johns medical facility on Springfield.
Western Taney County Fire Protection District Report:
On 12/17/07 WTCFD units responded to Hwy 165 & Windham to assist Branson Fire Department with a motor vehicle collision with entrapment. Units extricated one person from a heavily damaged vehicle.
Photos by C. Berndt - WTCFPD
James K. Single
Assistant Chief
Prevention Division.
Missouri Hwy Patrol Report
Investigated By Date Time County Location Troop
TPR HENDERSON #286 12/17 8:00PM TANEY MO 165 1.5 MILES SOUTH OF BRANSON D
Vehicle Information Veh. # Vehicle Description Damage Disposition Driver Name Driver Gender Driver Age Safety Device Driver City/State Driver Insurance Vehicle Direction
1 1996 MERCURY TOTAL A-1 ANGEL WRECKER SERVICE VEACH, RANDY W MALE 43 YES BRANSON, MO AMERICAN FAMILY NORTHBOUND
Injury Information Veh. # Name Gender Age Injury Type Safety Device City/State Involvement Disposition
1 VEACH, RANDY W MALE 43 SERIOUS YES BRANSON, MO DRIVER ST JOHNS HOSPITAL IN SPRINGFIELD
Branson Home Destroyed by Fire
On 12/15/07 at approx. 10:30am the Western Taney Co. Fire Protection District responded to a residential structure fire at 385 Split Rock Dr., Emerald Point. Upon arrival firefighters found smoke and flames showing from 2 stories of a 3 story residential structure. Crews were able to knock some flames down around the front entrance with large diameter hand lines and make entry into the structure. Once inside crews were able to stop the spread of the fire. The fire went to two alarms bringing 30 firefighters from 8 Western Taney Co. stations to the scene. It took firefighters approx. 1 hour to bring the fire under control. No one was home at the time of the fire and there were no injuries. Cause of the fire is undetermined at this time and is under investigation by the State Fire Marshall's Office.
James K. Single
Assistant Chief
Prevention Division
Branson Courier loses 100 lbs of Marijuana at Branson Hotel
One man is in custody following an overnight incident in Branson. At approximately 1:45 a.m. this morning, the Branson Police Department responded to a call pertaining to property damage at the Branson Landing View motel, located at 403 W. Main, after a person attempted to drive a U-Haul truck under the office awning and was not able to do so. After damaging the awning, the driver left the scene. A short time later, officers located the suspect vehicle at the Wendy’s restaurant, just west of the Branson Landing View motel. They found damage to the U-Haul consistent with the damage done to the awning at the motel. Officers were able to locate the driver of the U-Haul, 23 year-old Victor Arellano of El Paso, Texas, and he was taken into custody on charges of driving while revoked and leaving the scene of an accident.
The U-Haul was towed incident to the arrest and a search warrant was obtained and executed this afternoon. Inside the truck was over 100 pounds of marijuana, packaged for distribution. Street market value of the confiscated marijuana is estimated to be in excess of $100,000.
At this time, Victor Arellano remains incarcerated, with paperwork being forwarded to the Taney County Prosecutor’s Office for the filing of charges.
Caroll W. McCullough
Chief of Police
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