Scott Sherer, 12 Other Sheriffs Endorse Eggleston

On Friday, State Senate Candidate J. Eggleston announced the endorsement of Worth County Sheriff Scott Sherer and 12 other county sheriffs. Randy Strong (Nodaway), Tim Davis (Gentry), and Trevor Place (Harrison) are also listed. Others listed include Kasey Keesaman (DeKalb), Steve Portman (Holt), Bill Puett (Buchanan), Larry Adams (Daviess), Jose Lopez (Mercer), Larry Fish (Clinton), Mitch Allen (Caldwell), Roger Smiley (Sullivan), and Jewell McCoy (Carroll).

Mr. Eggleston said, “I am honored to be endorsed by the folks who protect our communities. I have always supported our area law enforcement, and I’m humbled they are now supporting me.”

Audit Report for Worth County Released

On Tuesday, the Missouri State Auditor released its report for the County of Worth. The overall rating for the county was “Good.” The following findings were issued by the auditor’s office:

–The Prosecuting Attorney does not issue receipt slips for all money received. The Prosecuting Attorney’s spreadsheets sent to victims and defendants showing current restitution accounts receivable balances are not always accurate.

–The Recorder of Deeds has not established proper procedures for receipting and recording money received, and does not perform adequate bank reconciliations and does not prepare a monthly list of liabilities.

–A complete and accurate seized property evidence log has not been maintained and a physical inventory of seized property has not been performed since the Sheriff took office in January 2021.

–The County Collector, Recorder of Deeds, and Sheriff have not established adequate password controls to reduce the risk of unauthorized access to computers and data. The County Collector, County Clerk, County Treasurer, Recorder of Deeds, and Sheriff do not have security controls in place to lock computers after a specified number of incorrect login attempts.

–The county has not developed a records management and retention policy in compliance with the Missouri Secretary of State Records Services Division guidance, as approved by the Missouri Local Records Commission.

The following recommendations were made:

–The Auditor’s Office recommended the Prosecutor issue receipt slips for all money immediately on receipt and establish procedures to record account receivables accurately;

–The Recorder of Deeds issue receipt slips for all money received on receipt, maintain a log of copy money and reconcile it to the money transmitted to the County Treasurer, prepare adequate monthly bank reconciliations and lists of liabilities, and investigate and resolve any discrepancies.

–The Sheriff maintain a complete and accurate seized property evidence log, ensure a periodic inventory is conducted and reconciled, and investigate any differences;

–The Commission work with other county officials to require passwords for all computers and employees and require passwords to be periodically changed and require computers to have security controls in place to lock each computer after a specified number of incorrect login attempts;

–The County Commission work with other county officials to develop a written records management and retention policy.

Because counties are managed by several separately elected individuals, an audit finding made with respect to one office does not necessarily apply to another office. The overall rating of the county does not necessarily indicate the performance of any one elected official or county office.

Senate Bill Would Increase Sheriff Pay

Missouri Senate Bill 53, passed by both the House and Senate, will increase Sheriff Scott Sherer’s pay. Last year, Sheriff Terry Sheddrick was paid $41,733.84 according to the County Financial Statement published in the Sheridan Express on February 24th. Under Senate Bill 53, the county sheriff in first and second class counties will now be paid 80% of the compensation of an associate circuit judge in that county. Third and fourth class counties raise the pay of their sheriff based on their assessed valuation. Worth County’s assessed valuation, according to the Missouri Association of Counties, was $33,919,681 in 2020. Under the proposed law, Worth County will pay Sherer 45% of Judge Joel Miller’s salary. Judge Miller is paid by the state and not the county. The bill awaits Governor Mike Parson’s signature. Both State Rep. Allen Andrews and State Senator Dan Hegeman voted against the measure.

Body of Melissa Chapman Found

The body of Melissa Chapman has been found, according to a news release from Worth County Prosecutor Janet Wake Larison released Tuesday. The release stated that a break in the case came when a tip was received by the Worth County Sheriff’s Office on Monday at around 5:00 pm. 

Multiple police departments were involved in the investigation, including the Worth County Sheriff’s Department, the Ringgold County Sheriff’s Department, the Gentry County Sheriff’s Department, the Harrison County Sheriff’s Department, and the Missouri State Highway Patrol Division of Drug and Crime Control.

Larison’s release says the investigation is ongoing and no further details will be released.

Chapman had been slated to testify in a criminal case against Jeremiah Searles in Harrison County. On August 23rd, she went missing; she was last seen in Mount Ayr; her car and her cell phone were recovered, but not her. Subsequently, Searles had his bond revoked and was rearrested. He had been out on a $10,000 bond, in which Judge Thomas Alley allowed him to post 10% cash, or $1,000.

The case drew regional attention following a vigil in which people from the community gathered on the Grant City Square. A second vigil, held last Wednesday, brought KQ2 of St. Joseph and KCCI of Des Moines. The case drew national attention when Inside Edition did a segment on the case Monday.

Two TV Stations Attend Melissa Chapman Vigil

The Melissa Chapman case is now getting regional attention. Two TV stations, KQ2 out of St. Joseph and KCCI of Des Moines, attended the vigil that was held on the Grant City Square Wednesday evening. This is the second vigil that has been held on the Grant City Square that evening. Her body was subsequently recovered after the Worth County Sheriff's Department received a tip Monday evening.

In a court matter that involved Chapman, Jeremiah Searles had his bond revoked by 3rd Division Circuit Judge Thomas Alley in Harrison County, and a new bond was set for $100,000. 

All persons with information about Chapman’s whereabouts are encouraged to call the Worth County Sheriff at 564-2222.

Grant City Woman Goes Missing

A Grant City woman, Melissa Chapman, has gone missing. She was last seen on August 23rd. She is 5’3” with brown hair and brown eyes. Her vehicle was found abandoned in Mount Ayr, with her cell phone found in the vehicle. If you have information about her whereabouts, please contact the Worth County Sheriff’s Department at (660) 564-2222.

Law Enforcement Honored by VFW Post 3123

VFW District 3 Judge Advocate Joe Marshall and VFW Post 3123 Commander Bob Hull and the membership of Post 3123 presented certificates of appreciation to members of the Worth County Sheriff’s Department Thursday. Honored were Sheriff Terry Sheddrick and deputies Jason Cain and Scott Sherer.

The certificates read, “In grateful recognition of unyielding adherence to the highest ideals of law enforcement in maintaining, preserving, and protecting the lawful rights of all citizens.”

Terry Sheddrick Won’t Seek Reelection

Sheriff Terry Sheddrick told the Sheridan Express Tuesday that he would not seek reelection this cycle. He had served as Worth County Sheriff from 2009 to the present. That will leave the sheriff’s post wide-open. No person shall be eligible who has been convicted of a felony. Candidates must be resident taxpayers for at least a year. No person can file for sheriff who does not have a valid Peace Officer license at the time of filing for office.

Worth Treatn’ Raises Over $1,500 for New K-9 Unit for Sheriff

Last Sunday afternoon, October 28th, the Grant City Pool Park was filled with animals, villains, princesses, and heros.  Over 225 kids/parents participated in the 8th annual Worth Treatn' where candy was plentiful and games and a bounce house kept everyone entertained.

There are so many thank you's that need to be extended for this event.  To all the area businesses and organizations who set up booths around the park - this would be a huge disappointment without you - thank you so much for taking time on your day off!  To the community who showed up to support Worth Treatn' (trick or treat/soup supper) - thank you for your very generous donations.

To the area churches who brought food for the soup supper at the skating rink - delicious as usual and so appreciated!  To the FACS classes and FCCLA officers - thank you for sending out letters, writing newspaper articles, and helping with all of Worth Treatn' activities.  The goal this year was to raise $1,200 to donate to the Worth County Sheriff's department but that goal was surpassed and $1,500 was given.  If you weren't able to attend Worth Treatn' and want to donate - the Sheriff's office would be more than happy to receive your K-9 check.  Again - a heartfelt thank you to a very generous community!

Hunter Found After Search and Rescue Operation at Seat Farm

Conservation Agents responded to the Seat Conservation Area on Friday October 20th to help search for a lost/past due hunter. He was found shortly after Conservation Agents and other emergencies services arrived. The 67 year old hunter had lost his flashlight on the way to his blind and got disoriented. When he didn’t come back to camp after the morning hunt his four hunting companions began a search. After hours of searching and dark only 3 hours away they contacted emergencies services for help.

The hunter had nothing to eat and little to drink all day. Other than being dehydrated and exhausted he was ok and glad to get back to camp. Other agencies that helped with the search was the Grant City Fire and EMS, Highway Patrol, and Worth County Sheriffs’ Dept.

People going hunting, hiking, and other similar outdoor activities are encouraged to have a detailed plan that is shared with others to help in situations like this one. Other things that can help are cell phones, satellite GPS devices, compasses, maps, extra food/water, etc.

To report conservation violations, you can contact Missouri Conservation Agents directly (numbers on MDC website) or by calling the county or state dispatch center. You can also call the OGT (Operation Game Thief) 24-hour hotline at 1-800-392-1111, you can remain anonymous and rewards are possible.a landowner who was able to obtain a vehicle description and license information leading Conservation Agent Wood to a suspect. MDC Agent Wood discovered during his investigation that the suspect had recently shot a large velvet antlered buck. The investigation also uncovered multiple suspects involved, as well as four additional bucks and one doe being recently poached. Additionally, the investigation uncovered that virtually all the meat from these animals was left to waste. This case is still under investigation. Conservation Agents rely heavily on public cooperation to aide in the enforcement of the Wildlife Code of Missouria landowner who was able to obtain a vehicle description and license information leading Conservation Agent Wood to a suspect. MDC Agent Wood discovered during his investigation that the suspect had recently shot a large velvet antlered buck. The investigation also uncovered multiple suspects involved, as well as four additional bucks and one doe being recently poached. Additionally, the investigation uncovered that virtually all the meat from these animals was left to waste. This case is still under investigation. Conservation Agents rely heavily on public cooperation to aide in the enforcement of the Wildlife Code of Missouri

Sheriff’s Department to Get Proceeds from Worth Treatin’

Plans were finalized last week in preparation of this year's 8th annual Worth Treatn' community event.   Letters were sent to area businesses, organizations, and churches with the hope that those who receive these letters will participate October 28th from 4-6 at the Grant City Pool Park.  This event will benefit the children of Worth County (providing a safe and fun alternative to trick or treating) as well as the Worth County Sheriff's Office (this year's recipient of the proceeds of Worth Treatn') as they continue their pursuit of a K9 Unit.  There will also be a FREE-WILL donation soup supper at the Skating Rink from 5:30 - 7 pm.  If the weather doesn't cooperate with an outdoor venue, Worth Treatn' will be moved to the Skating Rink.

Be sure to mark October 28th on your calendar!!  If anyone has questions about the events planned that day, please contact Jonell Cook, FCCLA adviser (FCCLA is organizing this event) email jcook@wc.k12.mo.us

Worth County Sheriff's Report

–People in to talk with sheriff.
–Person reports a scam on the phone they have been receiving.
–Person came in to talk with officer.
–People came in to talk with an officer.
–Person brought in some stuff for a person to come pick up. Person was notified and came and got it.
–Person reported that their dog had been shot.
–Person came in to report a dog biting. The person was getting checked out and treated for the bite.

Worth County Sheriff's Report

–Person calls to report missing people that lived in Worth County, but residents were fine and had moved away.
–Person in to talk with officers.
–Person has horse and cow out on 46; owner notified.
–Person in to talk with officer.
–Person called to report a possible fire, but they couldn’t get a hold of the owner of property, looked into it, and notified neighbor.
–Person came in to talk with officer.

Worth County Sheriff's Report

Officers working traffic control for a fire.
Officers served papers.
Person called for ID/OD on a trailer.
Person came in to report stuff stolen from residents.
Person called to report a pig out on road on 46. Owner notified.
Person called about a phone call scam.
Officers served papers.
A person came in to report that a wallet was stolen from a vehicle.
A person reports a threat at their residence.
A person called about a seater 4-wheeler.
Person in for ID/OD on vehicle.
A person locked keys in vehicle and needed assistance on getting it open.
A person called checking to see if 46 was open to Maryville.
Tested sirens.

Worth County Sheriff's Report

2-14 – People in to get a report.
2-14 – Person called to report a cow out north of Grant City. Owner notified.
2-15 – Person called needing ambulance to a resident’s house. Person had fallen and possibly broken something.
2-15 – Officer served papers.
2-16 – Person came in to talk to the sheriff.
2-16 – Some people in to talk with sheriff.
2-17 – Person in to ask about a report.
2-21 – Person in to ask about CCW.
2-21 – Person brought in a statement.
2-22 – Person came in for a CCW.
2-22 – Person came in to update some papers.
2-23 – Person called needing some information on a report.
2-24 – A person called needing an officer to check on a resident, but everything was fine. The person got hold of the resident.

Worth County Sheriff's Report

1-23 – Person calls about phone harassment.
1-23 – Highway Patrol and Worth County officers in for court case.
1-24 – No reports.
1-25 – Report of cattle out near Allendale; owner notified.
1-26 – Resident in to pick up statement forms.
1-26 – 911 hangup call; called the recorded phone number; child playing with phone, all OK.
1-26 – Gentry County calls to cancel warrant on wanted person.
1-26 – Resident needing a trailer inspection.
1-26 – Deputy and Family Services out on investigation.
1-26 – Resident calls to report an accident south of Sheridan Y; officer investigating.
1-27 – Several traffic checks by officer.

Worth County Sheriff's Report

1-9 – Person in officer to register as sex offender.
1-9 – Person calls about possible illegal dumping.
1-9 – Sheridan resident calls about a dog problem; referred to Sheridan Mayor.
1-10 – Call of horses out on Route C north of Denver; owner notified.
1-10 – Officer out of office investigating juvenile complaint.
1-11 – Person calls about possible breakin at a house in Worth; officer investigating.
1-12 – Officer investigating possible illegal use of ATM card.
1-13 – Grant City resident reports possible theft of mail from mailbox.
1-13 – North Kansas City police report arresting a person on Worth County warrant.
1-14 – Resident reports hitting a deer near Sheridan.

Worth County Sheriff's Report

1-2 – Officer investigating domestic disturbance call.
1-3 – Person calls about a property scam.
1-3 – Person calls needing vehicle ID/OD.
1-4 – Officers investigate hit and run accident, mailbox, and step railing damage.
1-5 – Officer investigates slide-off accident on 46 west of Grant City; no injuries.
1-5 – Worth County officers on bailiff duty.
1-5 – Officer investigates report of stolen car in Grant City; car has been recovered.
1-6 – Person calls for well-being check on a Sheridan resident; person is OK.

Worth County Sheriff's Report

12-25 – Officer responds to a domestic disturbance in Grant City.
12-25 – Person reports someone tried to run him off Highway 46 south of Sheridan.
12-27 – Person reports road sign down at 170th and 46.
12-27 – Electric power out at 3 pm.
12-28 – No report.
12-29 – Registered offender in to report he will be driving a different car this week.
12-29 – Person reports a large piece of metal on side of roadway on YY; referred to DOT.
12-30 – Person calls about missing car; car was returned.
12-30 – Person reports noise complaint at apartment on Grant City Square; officer responds.

Worth County Sheriff's Report

12-5 – Someone came in to report someone being on private property.
12-5 – Person in to speak with an officer.
12-5 – Person called to report someone has been trespassing on private property.
12-7 – Ringgold County called to have a deputy meet at the state line with a prisoner.
12-8 – Officer en route to Ringgold County to transport prisoner to court.
12-8 – Officer en route to Nodaway County to transport prisoner.
12-9 – Officer en route to Kansas to pick up prisoner and transport to Ringgold County.