Lawsuit Filed To Stop Festus Data Center Project
4/10/2026
Several residents are suing the City of Festus in an attempt to halt a six-billion-dollar data center project. The lawsuit alleges the city committed rezoning violations and colluded with developer CRG to keep parts of their agreement out of the public eye. It also accuses the city of failing to give proper notice of two crucial meetings on the data center proposal. City Attorney Brian Malone said Festus officials took "all steps required by law" to move the deal forward, and the city will file its response "in due course."
Torch Electronics To Suspend Operations In Missouri
4/10/2026
Torch Electronics is suspending operations in Missouri. The company says it will pull slot-style gambling machines from convenience stores effective Friday. The move comes after an ongoing joint criminal investigation into Torch. Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway called the business the largest provider of illegal gambling devices in Missouri, but Torch argues that their devices follow the law.
KC Leaders Propose Royals Stadium Funding Plan
4/10/2026
The Kansas City Royals may be one step closer to building a new stadium. Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas is proposing a funding plan for building a one-point-nine-billion-dollar stadium at Washington Square Park near Crown Center. Under the ordinance, the city would commit up to 600-million-dollars through economic activity redirections from the stadium and surrounding development. The Royals are planning to leave Kauffman Stadium when their current lease ends at the Truman Sports Complex following the 2030 season.
Antisemitism Bill Sent To Governor
4/10/2026
Missouri lawmakers are working to fight antisemitism in schools. A bill approved by lawmakers requires public schools and universities to establish policies for reporting and punishing hate speech against Jewish people. The bill has been sent to the governor for his signature.
Initial Unemployment Claims Decrease
4/10/2026
Missouri is seeing fewer initial unemployment claims. According to the Missouri Department of Labor, there were 25-hundred-15 initial claims filed during the week ending on April 4th. That marks a decrease of nearly 400 claims from the previous week.
ECC Summer Learning Academy Registration Opens Monday
4/10/2026
Registration for East Central College’s 2026 Summer Learning Academy (SLA) opens Monday, April 13, with a new lineup of classes designed to give students a fun, hands-on learning experience.
Beginning Monday, families can explore class offerings and register at www.eastcentral.edu/sla.
SLA offers enrichment opportunities for students ages 10 to 18 through a variety of classes that encourage creativity, curiosity, skill-building, and personal growth. Each summer, the program gives students the chance to explore new interests in an engaging college setting.
For 2026, SLA classes will be offered exclusively on ECC’s Union campus during the month of July, with classes beginning July 6.
Summer programming in Rolla is on hiatus this year as the College focuses time and resources on renovation and construction tied to the new ECC Rolla building.
Class fees vary by course. While many classes are priced at $10 or $25, some are offered at no cost and others may be priced higher depending on the subject matter and instructional needs.
The fees help offset administrative and instructional costs, while continued support from SLA sponsors helps keep the program an affordable option for area families.
The 2026 schedule includes a wide range of classes designed to make summer learning both accessible and enjoyable for participants.
New App Released For Flooding And Drought Conditions
4/9/2026
A new app is released that deals with flooding and drought conditions in Missouri. The app was created by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources following flooding in the state in 2019. The Missouri Flood and Drought app displays real-time conditions around the state, and it can predict how weather may impact different areas.
Torch Electronics To Suspend Operations In Missouri
4/9/2026
Torch Electronics is suspending operations in Missouri. The company says it will suspend the operations of slot-style gambling machines in Missouri convenience stores effective Friday. The move comes after an ongoing joint criminal investigation into Torch Electronics by the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of Missouri, the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Western District of Missouri, and the Attorney General's office. Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway called Torch Electronics the largest provider of illegal gambling devices in Missouri, but Torch argues that their devices follow the law.
Gun Safety Advocates Gather
4/9/2026
Gun safety advocates are calling for red flag laws in Missouri. A group of advocates gathered at the state capitol this week to ask lawmakers to pass red flag laws that will put a notice on someone's background check if they have a violent history in order to prevent them from purchasing or owning guns. According to the Centers for Disease Control, gun-related deaths in Missouri have risen by eight percent over the past 10 years.
Public Hearing Held On Work Requirement Amendment
4/9/2026
A public hearing is held for a proposed constitutional amendment in Missouri. Yesterday's hearing hosted by state lawmakers dealt with a proposed constitutional amendment that would add a work requirement for Missouri's Medicaid program. Under the proposal, applicants would have to prove that they met the work requirement during the previous month in order to enroll in the program, and they would need to prove that they met the work requirement each month to stay enrolled.
Festus Data Center To Move Forward After Election Results
4/9/2026
Plans for a data center in Festus will move forward despite Tuesday's election results. Four City Councilmembers were voted out of office in what officials say was a high-turnout election, including three who voted in favor of the data center project last month. However, Festus Mayor Sam Richards said the contract with a developer has already been signed, and the agreement is firmly in place. The election results could be certified as early as the end of this week.
Teen Charged In Deadly Shooting Makes Court Appearance
4/9/2026
A 13-year-old boy in custody for a deadly shooting outside of a track meet made a court appearance on Wednesday. The boy is accused of shooting two teens at the STEAM Academy at McCluer South-Berkeley High School last week, killing 13-year-old LaJuan Swopes. The motive for the shooting is still unknown. The teen faces multiple charges including second-degree murder.
Juvenile Crime Reform Bill Signed Into Law
4/8/2026
Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe is signing a juvenile crime reform bill into law. The measure makes it easier for prosecutors to charge minors who commit violent crimes as adults. The bill also increases the amount of prison time a person has to serve before they can be released on parole.
State Divorce Law Changes
4/8/2026
Missouri residents can now be granted a divorce while pregnant. Governor Mike Kehoe signed a bill into law yesterday that allows pregnant women to be granted a divorce. Under an old state law from the 1970s, pregnant women could file for divorce, but a judge could not finalize the process.
New Law Protects Children From Grooming And Sex Crimes
4/8/2026
A new Missouri state law is aimed at protecting children from grooming and sex crimes. Evie and Sophie's Law was signed by Governor Mike Kehoe yesterday. The measure makes it so children can be protected from enticement and from grooming. Missouri was one of 36 states that did not define grooming by law. The new law also mandates human trafficking training for law enforcement and criminalizes sextortion.
April 7th Municipal Election
4/8/2026
ECC to Celebrate Earth Day with Family-Friendly Activities, Nature Exploration
4/7/2026
Earth Day at East Central College will bring together science, nature, creativity, and community for an afternoon of hands-on activities and environmental learning on Saturday, April 11.
The Annual Earth Day 2026 celebration will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the first floor of the Donald D. Shook Student Center. The free event is open to students, employees, families, and community members, with activities designed for both children and adults.
From crafts and games to educational exhibits and guided conversations, the event offers a wide-ranging look at the natural world and the ways people can better understand and care for it. Guests can explore topics such as recycling, pollinators, gardening, water quality, wildlife, sustainability, and healthy living through interactive stations and make-and-take activities.
Highlights include a guided nature walk and an opportunity to check in on the kestrel babies at ECC, offering a closer look at one of the campus’s most popular signs of spring.
For adults, designated chat corners will provide space for deeper discussion on environmental topics, including the RECA Program and Coldwater Creek radiation exposure, as well as Missouri’s worst abandoned landfill located in Franklin County.
Activity stations will feature a variety of themed experiences, including gardening and pollinator activities such as marigold planting and Blooms for Bees and Butterflies; hands-on science and environmental learning like Build an Aquifer and Test Your Water, Does It Float, and Paper Science and Engineering; and interactive games and demonstrations including Recycle Toss, Fishing for Plastics, and The Great Monarch Migration.
Additional stations will explore wildlife, sustainability, and everyday practices, with topics ranging from Missouri mammals and outdoor discovery to homesteading, recycling, and healthy, low-cost recipes and SNAP application assistance.
The annual celebration is designed to make Earth Day engaging and accessible for all ages while encouraging curiosity, conversation, and a stronger connection to the environment.
For more information visit www.eastcentral.edu or contact Parvadha Acosta at 636-584-6627 or parvadha.acosta@eastcentral.edu.
Summer hours now in effect at MDC’s Busch and Henges Shooting Ranges
4/7/2026
The Missouri Department of Conservation’s (MDC) two staffed shooting ranges in the St. Louis region have begun their summer hours of operation. These will include extended evening hours during the week at both ranges which will enable shooting enthusiasts to take advantage of the longer daylight hours.
The summer schedules for both the August A. Busch and Jay Henges Shooting Ranges and Outdoor Education Centers will offer evening shooting opportunities. Jay Henges Range is open until 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday evenings and Busch Range is open until 7:30 p.m. on Thursdays.
The summer hours of each range are as follows and will be effective through Aug. 31:
Busch Range
- Wednesday: 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- Thursday: 1 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
- Friday through Sunday: 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- Closed Monday and Tuesday for maintenance and special use
Henges Range
- Wednesday: 1 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
- Thursday through Sunday: 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- Closed Monday and Tuesday for maintenance and special use
Both shooting ranges offer shooting lanes for rifle and pistols up to 100 yards. Use fees are $5 per hour at both facilities and include paper targets and eye and ear protection if shooters don’t have their own. Both shooting ranges feature trap fields, static archery ranges, and shotgun patterning boards. The Busch Range also offers skeet shooting. A $5 fee covers a round of shotgun shooting and clay birds at either facility, or an hour at the patterning board.
The August A. Busch Shooting Range and Outdoor Education Center is located at 3550 Route D, approximately five miles west of Highway 94 in Defiance. The Jay Henges Shooting Range and Outdoor Education Center is at 1100 Antire Road, just off I to 44, exit 269 in Eureka.
Sports Betting Tax Revenue Increases
4/7/2026
Sports betting tax revenue is in the rise in Missouri. According to the Missouri Gaming Commission, the state collected more than one-point-two-million-dollars in sports betting taxes in February. That marks the first time that sports betting tax revenue in Missouri has been above one-million-dollars in a single month since sports betting became active in Missouri in December 2025.
Counties To Decide Property Tax Exemption
4/7/2026
Missouri residents are set to decide on a property tax exemption question. Senate Bill Three would cap property tax increases to five percent at a time. Voters in more than two dozen counties will decide the issue at the polls today.
St. Charles General Mills Plant To Close This Summer
4/7/2026
A General Mills plant in St. Charles is closing this summer. Officials say the General Mills facility on Millstone Parkway will shut down in early June, putting 163 employees out of work. The company first announced plans to close the St. Charles plant and two others in Missouri last October. They said the employees losing their jobs are not eligible to transfer to other facilities.
St. Louis County Jail At Full Capacity
4/7/2026
The St. Louis County jail is at full capacity. Officials said the population at the county justice center was over the maximum capacity of 12-hundred-32 inmates on Sunday. The county says a high inmate population is just one of several issues at the jail along with budget cuts and staffing shortages. They added that more than a thousand of the inmates are still awaiting trial.
Deadly Shooting Near UMSL Under Investigation
4/7/2026
Police are investigating a deadly shooting near UMSL. Authorities say two men were found with gunshot wounds in different locations near the campus yesterday afternoon. Both men were taken to the hospital, where one of them later died. Anyone with information on the shooting is asked to contact St. Louis County P-D.
Area School Districts Reviewing Sporting Events After Deadly Shooting
4/7/2026
St. Louis-area school districts are taking another look at their security protocols for sporting events after a deadly shooting during a track meet last week. The Ferguson-Florissant School District says it is re-evaluating every safety measure after a 13-year-old boy was shot and killed outside the STEAM Academy at McCluer South-Berkeley High School. Several district athletic directors told KSDK-TV they are encouraging their school boards to increase security budgets, as higher wages are needed to attract more experienced officers and safety personnel.
No Threat After Suspicious Package Investigation At Post Office
4/6/2026
The all-clear was given at a post office in Kirkwood after a suspicious package investigation this past weekend. Authorities were called to the post office on the 300 block of South Kirkwood Road Saturday afternoon, with several nearby businesses being evacuated as a precaution. The FBI reportedly assisted in the investigation, which ended with no threat being found. Details of the package were not released.
Weekend Shooting Spree Under Investigation
4/6/2026
St. Louis police are asking for the public's help as they continue to investigate multiple shootings this past weekend. The department said three people were killed and at least six were injured in shootings across the city Friday afternoon into early Saturday morning. Most of the shootings took place at gas stations and other businesses. Anyone with information on the shootings is urged to contact Metro P-D.
Governor To Sign Bill Concerning Pregnancy And Divorces
4/6/2026
Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe is planning to sign a bill that will allow pregnant women to be granted a divorce. Under current Missouri law, pregnant women can file for a divorce, but the process cannot be finalized. The governor will sign the bill into law tomorrow.
Bill Will Increase Penalties For Juvenile Offenders
4/6/2026
A new law in Missouri will increase penalties for juvenile offenders. The measure will also allow older teenagers to be tried as adults for certain felonies and mandate that people convicted of specific felonies be required to serve at least 85 percent of their sentence. Governor Mike Kehoe is expected to sign the bill into law tomorrow.
Lawmakers To Consider Wrong Way Warning Bill
4/6/2026
Missouri lawmakers are considering a bill that would add another safety feature to highways. The Alexander Whalen Safe Highways Act is named for a man who was struck and killed by a wrong-way driver in the St. Louis area last year. The bill would add wrong-way detection systems to certain highways in the state.
Rabies Case Confirmed In Skunk
4/6/2026
A second case of rabies is confirmed in a skunk near a lake in Greene County. The Springfield-Greene County Health Department says the case was reported near Fellow Lake, and it is the second case in the area in the past two weeks. Health officials say exposure risk to the community is low, but people are being reminded about rabies prevention methods.
Owensville Man Charged with Drug Possession
4/6/2026
On March 31, 2026, the Gasconade County Sheriff’s Office, along with the Lake Area Narcotics Enforcement Group (LANEG) and the Owensville Police Department, executed a drug-related search warrant in the 200 block of West Marvin Street within the city limits of Owensville, Missouri.
During the execution of the warrant, officers made contact with one white male and one white female. As a result of the search, approximately one-half (½) gram of methamphetamine and various items of drug paraphernalia commonly associated with the consumption and distribution of illegal substances were located and seized.
One male and one female were transported to the Osage County Adult Detention Facility pending the issuance of formal charges.
On April 1, 2026, the Honorable Judge Ada Brehe Krueger issued a $10,000 cash-only warrant for Timothy R. Wood of Owensville, Missouri, on the following charges:
* Possession of a Controlled Substance
* Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Additionally, a $10,000 cash-only warrant was issued for Margaret A. Wood of Owensville, Missouri, on the following charges:
* Possession of a Controlled Substance
* Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
The Gasconade County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the Owensville Police Department and the Lake Area Narcotics Enforcement Group for their continued partnership and assistance in addressing illegal drug activity within the community.
All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
January 2026 Monthly Jobs Report
4/4/2026
Missouri nonfarm payroll employment increased by 9,700 jobs in January 2026, and the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was 3.9 percent. Private industry employment increased by 10,700 jobs and government employment decreased by 1,000 jobs. Over the year, there was an increase of 26,300 jobs from January 2025 to January 2026, and the unemployment rate was unchanged at 3.9 percent.
EMPLOYMENT
Missouri's nonfarm payroll employment was 2,995,300 in January 2026, up by 9,700 from the revised December 2025 figure. The December 2025 total was revised downward by 2,500 jobs from the preliminary estimate.
Goods-producing industries increased by 4,900 jobs over the month, with mining, logging, and construction gaining 7,100 jobs and manufacturing declining by 2,200 jobs. Private service-providing industries increased by 5,800 jobs between December 2025 and January 2026. Employment in private service-providing industries increased in leisure and hospitality (4,600 jobs); private education and health services (2,900 jobs); trade, transportation, and utilities (2,700 jobs); and information (500 jobs). Employment decreased in professional and business services (-4,100 jobs); financial activities (-700 jobs); and other services (-100 jobs). Total government employment decreased by 1,000 jobs over the month, with an increase in local government (100 jobs) and decreases in federal (-600 jobs) and state government (-500 jobs).
Over the year, total payroll employment increased by 26,300 jobs from January 2025 to January 2026. Employment gains were in mining, logging, and construction (20,000 jobs); private education and health services (11,900 jobs); leisure and hospitality (3,700 jobs); financial activities (2,300 jobs); and other services (500 jobs). Employment decreased in trade, transportation, and utilities (-2,500 jobs); professional and business services (-1,400 jobs); manufacturing (-1,300 jobs); and information (-100 jobs). Government employment decreased by 6,800 jobs over the year, with an increase in local government (700 jobs) and decreases in federal (-6,200 jobs) and state government (-1,300 jobs).
UNEMPLOYMENT
Missouri's smoothed seasonally adjusted unemployment rate remained unchanged in January 2026 at 3.9 percent from the revised December 2025 rate as well as the January 2025 rate. The estimated number of unemployed Missourians was 123,276 in January 2026, up by 132 from the revised December total of 123,144.
The state's not-seasonally-adjusted unemployment rate increased in January 2026 by 1.1 percentage points to 4.4 percent from the December 2025 not-seasonally-adjusted rate of 3.3 percent. A year ago, the not-seasonally-adjusted rate was 4.4 percent. The corresponding not-seasonally-adjusted national rate for January 2026 was 4.6 percent.
Missouri's labor force participation rate was 63.6 percent in January 2026, 1.1 percentage points higher than the national rate of 62.5 percent. Missouri's employment-population ratio was 61.2 percent in January 2026, 1.4 percentage points higher than the national rate of 59.8 percent. Missouri's unemployment rate was 3.9 percent in January 2026, four-tenths of a percentage point lower than the national rate of 4.3 percent. Missouri's unemployment rate has been at or below the national rate for more than 10 years.
ANNUAL REVISIONS FOR 2025 DATA
With the release of January 2026 data, previously released employment and unemployment estimates for Missouri statewide and sub-state areas from both Local Area Unemployment Statistics (LAUS) and Current Employment Statistics (CES) programs have been revised through the annual revision and benchmarking process. Revised estimates reflect additional data and estimation methods developed over the year, including new population controls from the Census Bureau, updated input data, and reestimation.
LAUS data for the month of October 2025 was impacted by the lapse in federal appropriations and subsequent federal government shutdown. October 2025 data is not available and not included in these updates.
Revised data for 2025 show that seasonally adjusted total nonfarm payroll employment averaged lower than reported in the original release for every month. In the original estimates, on net from January 2025 to December 2025, Missouri gained roughly 71,400 fewer jobs than reported in the original estimates. After the revisions process, the state’s employment change from January 2025 to December 2025 was revised to a net gain of 16,600 jobs.
The revision process for the LAUS series resulted in Missouri’s civilian labor force participation rate being revised slightly higher than originally published for January through May. The civilian labor force participation rate was unchanged for June and July and then revised lower for August through December. Missouri’s civilian labor force participation rate was above the national rate for the year.
The revision process also resulted in Missouri’s seasonally adjusted unemployment to be higher for January to May in 2025 compared to the original estimates. From January through May, monthly unemployment increases ranged from 2,239 to 8,363 people. Unemployment in Missouri was revised downward for June through December, with monthly decreases ranging from 437 to 7,102 people.
Missouri’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was revised to be higher for January to April in 2025 compared to the original estimates and was unchanged for May and June. The rate was revised lower from July to November, with monthly decreases of 0.1 to 0.2 percentage points. December’s revised unemployment rate remained unchanged at 3.9 percent. Missouri’s unemployment rate was below the national rate for the year.
Route B Closures Set for Culvert Replacement Work in Franklin County April 6 through April 9
4/3/2026
Drivers who travel Route B in Franklin County should be aware of upcoming closures on that roadway next week.
The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) has scheduled daytime closures of Route B daily from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. for culvert replacement work beginning Monday, April 6 through Thursday, April 9. All work is weather permitting.
Route B closure locations are:
- East side of Route B from the top of Etlah Hill to Berger Bottom Road
- Route B from Lower Bottom Road to Berger Bottom Road
For updates on this and other projects, visit MoDOT’s website Home Page | Missouri Department of Transportation or follow MoDOT on social media.
Violence Prevention Town Hall Planned Over High School Shooting
4/3/2026
A town hall focusing on violence prevention will be held in north county this weekend. Representative Kem Smith is hosting the event in response to the shooting earlier this week at McCluer-South Berkely High School that claimed the life of a 13-year-old boy and critically injured a 15-year-old boy. The town hall will be held on Saturday from 11 a.m. until 1 pm at Calvery Bible Church in Florissant.
Police Raid In South City Results In Thirteen Arrests
4/3/2026
A massive police raid in south St. Louis resulted in thirteen arrests and sixty-three summonses being issued. Police say officers issued warrants yesterday at an apartment building along the 36-hundred block of Illinois Avenue. The building had been condemned back in February and police say it has become a hub for violent crimes. Police also seized ten firearms, two of which had been stolen.
Bill Banning Intoxicating Hemp Products Sent To Governor's Desk
4/3/2026
A bill banning intoxicating hemp products is sent to the desk of Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe. The measure was approved by both chambers. The bill requires Missouri retailers to remove hemp seltzers, gummies and similar products from their shelves by November 12th. Stores will still be allowed to sell products with less than point-four milligrams of THC.
Initial Unemployment Claims Increase
4/3/2026
Missouri is seeing more initial unemployment claims. According to the Missouri Department of Labor, there were 29-hundred-seven claims filed during the week ending on March 28th. That marks an increase of nearly 220 claims from the previous week.
Lawmakers Pass Childcare Bill
4/3/2026
A childcare bill is passed by the Missouri House. The measure creates three new tax credit programs. The Child Care Contribution Tax Credit is a 75 percent credit for businesses, charitable organizations, and people who contribute to a registered childcare provider. The Employer-Provided Child Care Assistance Tax Credit is a 30 percent credit on qualified childcare expenditures for employers who provide on-site childcare for their workers, and the Child Care Providers Tax Credit covers 100 percent of eligible employer payroll tax withholdings and up to 30 percent of capital improvement costs.
Cardinals' Winn Gets In Crash After Walk-Off Hit
4/2/2026
The Cardinals say shortstop Masyn Winn is OK after a car accident last night. The ballclub says Winn was checked out at a hospital after he was involved in a single-vehicle crash on I-64. The wreck happened just hours after Winn hit a walk-off single to give the Cards a 2-1 victory over the New York Mets at Busch Stadium. Authorities said the crash was caused by wet pavement.
Lawmakers Considering Colton's Law
4/2/2026
Missouri lawmakers are considering a bill that would require insurance coverage for children with autoimmune disorders. The measure, called Colton's Law, would require insurance companies to cover treatments. Fifteen other states have laws requiring insurance coverage for Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections. The measure was introduced by State Senator Rick Brattin.
Supreme Court Issues Rule Change
4/2/2026
The Missouri Supreme Court is issuing a rule change on what public records accused criminals can have access to. Under current law, accused criminals can go online to see if they are wanted on an arrest warrant. Under the change, all warrant information in Missouri will be sealed effective July 1st.
Bill Restricts Classroom Screentime
4/2/2026
Missouri students may soon have limited screentime in the classroom. The Missouri House passed a bill this week that restricts classroom technology. Under the bill, screentime limits would be implemented for students in kindergarten through fifth grade. In addition, cursive writing instruction guided by the Literacy Advocacy Council would be implemented.
Washington Police Department on AI Scams
4/2/2026
With the development of AI, the scams have become more elaborate to make you feel that any communication is legitimate. Scammers are obtaining your personal, financial, family, and work information from the internet and social media, and using the information to make themselves sound realistic and legitimate.
As the scams become more advanced, more people will become victims. There are a few common factors that should be instant red flags no matter how legit.
1. The request to liquidate your accounts.
2. The purchase of gift cards.
3. The purchase of bitcoin.
Especially at a kiosk. Legit traders do not use them. About 98% of their usage is scam related.
4. The caller is rushing you to do something. This is to get you to act before your brain has a chance to think.
5. Cash payments picked up by a courier or mailed via USPS are scams. Especially if the caller is directing you on how to do it.
6. No Law Enforcement agency is going to call you to tell you that you have a warrant or that you missed jury duty, or didn't pay your toll fees, or pay your parking tickets, etc. And to add to that, tell you that you need to pay in bitcoin or gift cards.
7. Anyone that tells you that you won something and must send them money for the taxes, is lying and it's a scam.
8. If you sell an item and the purchaser sends you a check for more than the amount due, it's a scam.
9. Don't click on pop-up windows on your computer. Especially if it says that your computer is infected and they want access to it.
10. The IRS does not call you because you or someone you love owes them money. That's a scam.
Remember this, slow down when you get these calls and think. Don't use any phone number they give you to confirm what you are hearing.
Do your own diligence and look up the phone numbers yourself and call. If you have any questions about a call or pop-up, contact law enforcement BEFORE you act.
And as a side note, don't send your private images to someone you think you know on the internet. Because the internet is forever, and your friends and family don't want to see them when you run out of money to send the extortionist at the other end of the keyboard.
Missouri’s youth spring turkey hunting turns 25
4/2/2026
This year marks the 25th anniversary of MDC offering a special youth weekend for spring turkey hunting. In April 2001, young Missouri turkey hunters got their first dedicated spring hunting weekend for wild turkeys in the Show-Me-State.
Over the decades, youth spring turkey hunting has grown in popularity. In 2001, MDC sold just over 4,000 youth permits. Last year MDC sold nearly 18,000 youth permits. Since 2001, an average of about 15,500 youth hunters have participated in the youth turkey season.
Missouri’s 2026 spring turkey hunting weekend for young hunters, ages 6-15, is April 11 and 12. The regular spring turkey hunting season is April 20 through May 10.
Get details on turkey hunting in Missouri from the MDC 2026 Spring Turkey Hunting Regulations and Information booklet, available at MDC offices, nature centers, and other places where permits are sold, and online at mdc.mo.gov/hunting-trapping/species/turkey.
13-Year-Old Dies After Shooting Outside High School
4/2/2026
A teenager who was shot by another teen in a high school parking lot is dead. Family members say 13-year-old LaJuan Slopes died in the hospital after he and a 15-year-old were shot by another 13-year-old outside of Steam Academy at McCluer South-Berkeley High School on Tuesday. The suspect was found and arrested a short time later and is charged with second-degree murder. KMOV reports the other teen who was shot is expected to make a full recovery.
Eight Injured In St. Louis County Crash
4/2/2026
Authorities are investigating a crash in St. Louis County injured eight people, including six children. Police say a Ford Mustang rear-ended a car on I-270 at State Highway 367 Tuesday evening after the vehicle in front of the car ran out of gas. All eight occupants were taken to the hospital, with a four-year-old reportedly suffering serious injuries.
Gas Prices Rise
4/2/2026
Gas prices in Missouri are continuing to rise. According to Triple-A, the average price for a gallon of regular yesterday was three-dollars-and-46-cents. That marks a three-cent jump over the past week and an 80-cent increase over the past month.
Overnight Closures Planned on Westbound I-44 at Route D in Franklin County Beginning April 6
4/1/2026
Motorists who travel Interstate 44 in Franklin County should be aware of overnight closures on westbound Interstate 44 at Route D, scheduled by the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT). Work is scheduled to begin the night of April 6, 2026..
Crews will work overnight to repair a bridge girder damaged by an oversized load in 2025. Closures will occur during the following times:
- Monday through Friday: 8 p.m. to 7 a.m.
- Saturday and Sunday: 7 p.m. to 7 a.m.
During most work nights, both westbound lanes of I-44 beneath the Route D bridge will be closed. Westbound traffic will be reduced to one lane then detoured up and over the exit ramps at Route D. As part of this repair, the Route D bridge over I-44 will also be closed overnight.
Drivers traveling westbound on I-44 should expect delays and are encouraged to plan ahead, allow extra travel time, or seek alternate routes. Multiple detours will be in place to guide motorists safely through the area.
Eastbound I-44 and the eastbound on- and off-ramps at Route D are expected to remain open and unaffected, except for access across the Route D bridge during closure periods.
This work is expected to take approximately 6 to 8 weeks of overnight work to complete, weather permitting.
For real-time traffic updates, visit MoDOT’s Traveler Information Map or follow on social media.
More Details In Fake Child Abduction Report
4/1/2026
Police are releasing more details about a fake child abduction report. An AMBER Alert was issued yesterday in South County, after a woman reported her five-year-old daughter was abducted when someone stole her SUV that was parked outside a store with the girl left inside. Police later determined there was no child, saying the woman couldn't provide pictures of the youngster, and officers found no signs a child even lived at her home. They say she may have made the abduction claim to garner a stronger police response, but are still unclear of the exact motive. The unidentified woman and her roommate are in custody, with charges against them pending.
Safe Digging Month Underway
4/1/2026
National Safe Digging Month is underway in Missouri. Officials say Missouri residents need to call eight-one-one several days in advance before doing any digging such as planting a tree or building a fence. Crews will be able to mark underground water, gas and electrical lines in order to prevent damage.
Fort Leonard Wood Opens New Hospital
4/1/2026
A Missouri military base is opening a new hospital. A ribbon-cutting ceremony took place yesterday for the new General Leonard Wood Community Hospital at Fort Leonard Wood. The 430-million-dollar hospital will start inpatient and emergency room services on April 7th.
Arkansas Fires Impacting Missouri Air Quality
4/1/2026
Air quality in Missouri is being impacted by smoke from fires in Arkansas. Officials say the air quality in Springfield was at a moderate level yesterday. Smoke from fires in the Ouachita Mountains in southern Arkansas has drifted north into Missouri, causing a risk to people who may be sensitive to air pollution.
Ballot Measure Would Cap Property Tax Increased
4/1/2026
Missouri voters will decide the fate of a measure that would limit property tax increases. Senate Bill Three will be decided by Missouri voters on April 7th. If approved, property tax increases would be capped in 97 counties across the state.
Missouri Attorney General Files Lawsuit Against CBD Company
4/1/2026
Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway is filing a lawsuit against CBD American Shaman and associated companies. Hanaway filed the petition in collaboration with the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services. She says Missourians, including those who struggle with opioid addiction, are being misled into believing that Seven-O-H is predictable, safe, and natural. Hanaway's lawsuit claims the company is not adequately disclosing the risks associated with the drugs.
Two Juveniles Critically Injured In Shooting Near High School
4/1/2026
Two juveniles are in critical condition after a shooting in Ferguson next to a high school track meet. Police say the shooting happened in the parking lot of McCluer South-Berkeley High School as the Rod Staggs Freshman-Sophomore Track and Field Invitational was coming to an end. A suspect is in custody. The investigation is ongoing.
St. Charles County Council Unanimously Approve Partnership With ICE
3/31/2026
St. Charles County is entering a partnership with ICE. The County Council voted unanimously last night to join the federal agency's task force program, which allows local officers to exercise limited immigration enforcement authority. The vote was held after a public comment period in which several residents urged opposition to the partnership. County officials said any immigration actions would be at the officer's discretion.
Festus Data Center Approved After Contentious Council Meeting
3/31/2026
The Festus City Council is approving plans for a data center. The Council voted 6-2 last night in favor of developing 360 acres of land near Highway 67 and Route C-C after a contentious meeting. According to KMOV, over two-dozen residents spoke out against the project during the public comment preceding the vote. City officials say the initial investment alone will be at least six-billion-dollars in construction and property.
Death of St. Clair Man - Drowning
3/31/2026
On March 14th our office, along with St. Clair Police and the Missouri State Highway Patrol Water Division, began an investigation into Mr. Robbie Miller of St. Clair who was reported missing. Investigators worked diligently along with Mr. Miller’s family to find him, but also to preserve information and evidence in case anything suspicious arose. His UTV was discovered stuck in the mud along the river of the Meramec.
On March 26, 2026, the body of Mr. Miller was located in the Meramec River. The St. Clair Fire Protection District assisted in his recovery. Investigators continued their investigation along with the St. Louis County Medical Examiner's Office, which performed an autopsy, and preliminary information was given to investigators. St. Clair Police and Franklin County Investigators met with the family to inform them of all known information. It is the determination of all agencies involved that there is no foul play suspected and Mr. Miller had drowned in the Meramec River.
I would like to thank the Missouri State Highway Water Patrol Division, St. Clair Police Department, St. Clair Fire Department, the numerous search and rescue teams that responded, our investigators, the family and the public that assisted in the search. Our thoughts and prayers go to the victim’s family in this time of crisis.
AMBER Alert Canceled, No Abducted Child
3/31/2026
An AMBER alert is canceled after authorities say a report of an abducted child in Affton was a hoax. Authorities said this morning that a five-year-old girl was taken from a home on New Hampshire Avenue in a stolen vehicle. This afternoon, St. Louis County Police said there was never an abducted child. Police say two women were involved in the hoax and detectives are seeking charges against them.
Lawmakers Consider Proof Of Citizenship Bill
3/31/2026
Missouri lawmakers are considering a proof of citizenship bill. The measure would require people to submit proof of citizenship in order to receive food stamps and government health care. The bill was presented to a Senate committee by Republican State Senator Rick Brattin of Lee's Summit.
Child Care Subsidy Waitlist Growing
3/31/2026
The waitlist for Missouri families who applied for child care subsidies is growing. As of this week, there are more than 860 families who have applied through the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. The waitlist represents more than 15-hundred children.
Bill Aims To Allow Pregnant Women The Right To Divorce
3/31/2026
A bill in the Missouri General Assembly is aiming to grant pregnant women the right to divorce. Under current Missouri law, a pregnant woman can file for divorce, but a judge can refuse to finalize the process. A Missouri House bill allows for the dissolution of marriage while the woman is pregnant.
Initial Unemployment Claims Fall In St. Louis, Statewide
3/30/2026
St. Louis and the rest of Missouri are seeing fewer initial unemployment claims. According to the Missouri Department of Labor, there were 26-hundred-89 claims filed during the week ending on March 21st. That marks a drop of nearly 300 claims from the previous week.
No Kings Protests Held In St. Louis Area
3/30/2026
Thousands in the St. Louis area took part in the latest round of "No Kings" protests against the Trump Administration on Saturday. Demonstrators gathered across the country with posters and signs accusing President Trump of abuse of power and authority overreach. Organizers say the protests drew an estimated eight-million Americans nationwide. They come as Trump's approval ratings drop to 36 percent and gas prices continue to climb.
Man Awarded $37M In Lawsuit Over 2016 STLMPD Shooting
3/30/2026
A man who was shot by St. Louis police when he was a teenager is being awarded 37-million-dollars. A jury found Tyron Edwards was wrongfully shot by two officers who then lied and said he pulled a gun. Edwards was 14 years old when the shooting happened in October 2016. The officers were found liable for assault, malicious prosecution, and false imprisonment.
Apply for MDC elk and bear hunting permits in May
3/30/2026
The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) reminds Missourians interested in hunting black bear and/or elk in the state this fall that they need to apply for a limited number of hunting permits for each in May. The Missouri Conservation Commission approved recommendations from MDC for upcoming seasons for each species at its March 27 open meeting in Jefferson City.
BLACK BEAR HUNTING
MDC will offer 2,000 permits to harvest up to a maximum of 60 black bears across three MDC black-bear management zones in the southern part of the state during the 2026 Missouri black-bear hunting season, Oct. 17-30. MDC increased the number of available permits from 600 to 2,000 and increased the harvest quota limit from 40 to 60 bears to expand hunting opportunities. Missouri has an estimated population of about 1,100 bears.
“After reviewing results from the past five hunting seasons and considering the continued growth of Missouri’s bear population of about nine percent per year, we determined that the harvest quota could be increased and more permits could be offered to provide additional hunting opportunities, while still having a limited impact on the bear population,” said MDC Black Bear and Furbearer Program Coordinator Nate Bowersock.
"These changes will also inform future management recommendations as we evaluate how an increase in hunters might impact harvest rates,” Bowersock added. “As the black bear population continues to grow and expand, the hunting season will be used as the primary population management tool.”
Missouri hunters harvested nine black bears during the 2025 season with two being females and seven being males.
Get more information on black-bears and bear hunting in Missouri and apply during May at mdc.mo.gov/hunting-trapping/species/bear
ELK HUNTING
MDC will again also offer five permits to hunt bull elk in Missouri this fall with at least one permit designated for qualifying landowners who own property in Carter, Reynolds, or Shannon counties and the remaining permits for qualifying residents. MDC has designated the 2026 elk archery portion to run Oct. 17-25 and the elk firearms portion to run Dec. 12-20.
Missouri has an estimated 325 free-ranging elk under MDC’s elk restoration and management program. Missouri hunters harvested three bull elk during the 2025 season.
Get more information on elk and elk hunting and apply during May at mdc.mo.gov/hunting-trapping/species/elk.
Robertsville Man Charged with Abandonment of a Corpse
3/27/2026
On March 22, 2026, at approximately 10:40 a.m., deputies with the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office responded to the 200 block of Labadie Power Plant Road in Labadie, Missouri, after an Ameren employee discovered an unresponsive male while conducting a power line inspection related to a reported outage in the area.
Upon arrival, deputies located an adult male, later identified as Cody J. Lashly, a 34-year-old male from Beaufort, Missouri, who was pronounced deceased at the scene. Mr. Lashly’s next of kin has been notified.
Initial investigation revealed Lashly was attempting to cut and steal copper wire from utility lines. A DeWalt grinder equipped with a cutting wheel had been affixed to a modified pole was located near the scene. Investigators also located a snapped utility pole, downed power lines, and evidence consistent with electrocution injuries.
Additional evidence recovered at the scene included broken components of a vehicle side mirror. Through further investigation, including review of surveillance footage from local businesses, deputies identified a vehicle traveling to and from the area during the timeframe of the incident. The vehicle, a Dodge Ram truck, was observed entering the area with two occupants and leaving shortly thereafter with only one occupant. The vehicle also appeared to have sustained damage consistent with evidence recovered at the scene.
Investigators identified the driver as Jerry A. Hendrickson, a 41-year-old male from Robertsville, Mo. On March 24, 2026, Hendrickson was taken into custody and interviewed. During the investigation, Hendrickson admitted to driving Lashly to the location and positioning his vehicle to assist Lashly in accessing the utility lines. Lashly stood in the bed of the truck while attempting to cut the wire. During the attempt, the line tension caused a utility pole to snap, bringing live electrical lines into contact with Lashly, resulting in his electrocution. Hendrickson stated he fled the scene after observing Lashly unresponsive.
The Franklin County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office has charged Jerry A. Hendrickson with the following:
· Abandonment of a Corpse
· Attempted Stealing – $750 or More
· Damage to a Critical Infrastructure Facility
A no-bond warrant has been issued for the above charges.
MDC’s Busch Shooting Range to host Introduction to Turkey Hunting April 6
3/27/2026
Spring turkey season is one of the most anticipated hunting seasons in the Show-Me-State. Missouri is especially well-known for its outstanding turkey hunting. These wary birds may present a challenge but beginning turkey hunters should not be intimidated by the sport.
The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) invites new hunters to an Introduction to Turkey Hunting program Monday, April 6 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the August A. Busch Shooting Range and Outdoor Education Center in Defiance. This class is free and open to ages 11 and up, making it a good opportunity for both adult and youth hunters to enter the sport. Spring Turkey Season begins April 20, so now is the time to get prepared.
“Spring turkey hunting is challenging and a great way to get in the woods to pursue these elusive birds,” said Busch Shooting Range and Outdoor Education Center Manager, Bryant Hertel. “So, if you are new to hunting or have not tried turkey hunting before, this program is for you.”
The program will introduce new turkey hunters to hunting strategies needed for success in pursuing the wary birds. The class will be taught by both MDC staff and members of the National Wild Turkey Federation, tapping into a wide range of expertise.
Participants will learn what kinds of habitat tend to hold turkeys, how to positively identify a turkey, basic hunting and shooting safety, hunting techniques, regulations, firearm selection and shotgun patterning. Students will get an introduction to the most popular turkey calls and effective calling techniques, including practical tips on when and how often to call. Other gear will be reviewed to help beginning hunters be successful, like clothing, hunting blinds, and decoys.
Introduction to Turkey Hunting is a free program, but advanced online registration is required at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/o5Y.
The August A. Busch Shooting Range and Outdoor Education Center is located at 3550 Route D, approximately five miles west of Highway 94 in Defiance.
Sign up for email or text alerts to stay informed of MDC’s latest programs and events by going to https://short.mdc.mo.gov/ZoP.
Census Shows Little Growth For St. Louis Metro Area
3/27/2026
The latest U.S. census data is showing slight growth for the St. Louis metro area, but not in the city or county. According to a new report, the City of St. Louis lost 23-hundred residents from 2024-to-2025, while the population in St. Louis County dropped by almost 800. A decline was also reported in part of the Metro East, but St. Charles County gained close to four-thousand residents, and four other Missouri counties saw rising population as well. The St. Louis area's overall population increased by three-thousand, keeping it as the 23rd-largest metro in the country.
Casino Arrests Down in Missouri
3/27/2026
The number of casino arrests is down in Missouri. The Missouri State Highway Patrol Gaming Division's Casino Enforcement Unit made 656 arrests at casinos across the state in 2025, which is down from one-thousand-three arrests in 2024. Three-hundred-20 people were arrested at Missouri casinos last year for a felony.