Callaway County Sheriff's Office

10/11/2026

Update 10/11/2026 3:10 PM:

The initial release incorrectly indicated that Akers was arrested for Driving While Intoxicated (Habitual Offender). The correct arrest offense was Driving While Intoxicated (Prior Offender).

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On October 10, 2026, at approximately 10:59 p.m., a Callaway County Sheriff's Office deputy attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a passenger vehicle after nearly t-boning the deputy on Westminster Drive near 4th Street.

The driver failed to stop, resulting in a vehicle pursuit westbound on State Road F at speeds. During the pursuit, the driver intentionally applied the vehicle's brakes several times in front of pursuing deputies, resulting in collisions and damage to both the suspect's vehicle and a patrol vehicle.

The pursuit ended on State Road F near County Road 341, where the driver, identified as Sydney Akers, 29, of Fulton, Missouri, refused to exit the vehicle despite repeated commands from deputies.

During the encounter, Akers made statements indicating she wanted deputies to shoot her and subsequently claimed to be armed with a fi***rm and a deputy discharged his department-issued fi***rm.

Additional deputies arrived on scene and continued giving commands for Akers to exit the vehicle. Akers continued to refuse commands, resulting in the deployment of a less-lethal projectile. Akers was subsequently taken into custody and transported to a local hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries before being released to the Callaway County Jail on multiple felony charges including DWI - Prior Offender, Resisting Arrest, Leave the Scene of an Accident and Felony Assault.

These charges are merely allegations. Akers is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) is conducting an independent investigation into the officer-involved shooting.

Due to the ongoing investigation, no additional details will be released at this time. Any further information regarding the officer-involved shooting will be released as appropriate.

10/07/2026

PRESS RELEASE – UPDATE

The victim in this homicide investigation has been identified as 37-year-old Aunika C. Houston, the mother of the seven children previously located at the Baymont Inn & Suites in Kingdom City.

Aunika Houston was originally from the State of California and is believed to have been residing in the Central Missouri area for the past several years. Her next of kin has been notified.

Prior to the 911 call that initiated this investigation, Aunika Houston had not been entered as a missing person by any law enforcement agency.

Jonathan G. Houston remains in the custody of the Callaway County Jail and is being held without bond pursuant to an order of the Court.

Due to the ongoing nature of this investigation and the need to preserve the integrity of the case and any future criminal proceedings, no additional information will be released at this time.

These charges are merely allegations. Jonathan Houston is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

Kingdom City man charged with Murder 1st and Kidnapping after investigation at Kingdom City hotel

On October 4, 2026, at approximately 10:27 a.m., the Callaway County Joint Communications Center (CCJC) received a 911 call requesting assistance. Information obtained during the call led deputies with the Callaway County Sheriff’s Office to the Baymont Inn & Suites in Kingdom City, Missouri.

During the investigation, deputies located Jonathan G. Houston, a 44-year-old male from Kingdom City. Houston was taken into custody, and seven children located with him were placed into protective custody.

As the investigation continued, deputies developed information indicating that a woman had been killed approximately 10 months earlier at the hotel. Houston was subsequently transported to the Callaway County Jail.

On October 5, 2026, the Callaway County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office formally charged Houston with Murder in the First Degree and Kidnapping in the First Degree. Houston is being held without bond.

This remains an active and ongoing investigation. Due to the serious nature of the case, the involvement of children, and the need to preserve the integrity of the investigation and any future criminal proceedings, certain details are intentionally being withheld at this time. No additional information will be released unless and until doing so will not compromise the investigation.

These charges are merely allegations. Houston is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

Anyone with information regarding this investigation is encouraged to contact Callaway County Crimestoppers anonymously at (573) 592-2474 or through the Callaway County Sheriff’s Office website (https://www.callawaysheriff.org/crime-stoppers).

10/05/2026

Kingdom City man charged with Murder 1st and Kidnapping after investigation at Kingdom City hotel

On October 4, 2026, at approximately 10:27 a.m., the Callaway County Joint Communications Center (CCJC) received a 911 call requesting assistance. Information obtained during the call led deputies with the Callaway County Sheriff’s Office to the Baymont Inn & Suites in Kingdom City, Missouri.

During the investigation, deputies located Jonathan G. Houston, a 44-year-old male from Kingdom City. Houston was taken into custody, and seven children located with him were placed into protective custody.

As the investigation continued, deputies developed information indicating that a woman had been killed approximately 10 months earlier at the hotel. Houston was subsequently transported to the Callaway County Jail.

On October 5, 2026, the Callaway County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office formally charged Houston with Murder in the First Degree and Kidnapping in the First Degree. Houston is being held without bond.

This remains an active and ongoing investigation. Due to the serious nature of the case, the involvement of children, and the need to preserve the integrity of the investigation and any future criminal proceedings, certain details are intentionally being withheld at this time. No additional information will be released unless and until doing so will not compromise the investigation.

These charges are merely allegations. Houston is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

Anyone with information regarding this investigation is encouraged to contact Callaway County Crimestoppers anonymously at (573) 592-2474 or through the Callaway County Sheriff’s Office website (https://www.callawaysheriff.org/crime-stoppers).

09/29/2026

JOINT TACTICAL TRAINING UNDERWAY IN GUTHRIE

GUTHRIE, MO — September 29, 2026

The Callaway County Sheriff’s Office and Boone County Sheriff's Office - MO are conducting joint tactical (SWAT) training today at the former Tonanzio’s restaurant property, located at 8285 State Road J in Guthrie, outside of New Bloomfield.
Members of both agencies are participating in a variety of realistic training exercises designed to strengthen coordination between tactical teams and prepare personnel for high-risk incidents.
Training includes building entry and clearing tactics, breaching techniques, forced vehicle entries, and other tactical scenarios.

The family that owns the property is on site and has generously made the building available for today’s training. Access to facilities like this provides deputies with an invaluable opportunity to train in a realistic environment rather than a traditional training facility.

Residents and motorists in the area may notice an increased law enforcement presence, including tactical personnel and specialized vehicles. There is no emergency or threat to the public associated with this activity.

We appreciate the property owners for allowing our agencies to utilize the location and the Boone County Sheriff’s Office for their continued partnership. Joint training such as this helps ensure our teams can work together safely and effectively when called upon during an actual critical incident.

09/28/2026

❤️ CALLAWAY COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE LIFE SAVING AWARDS 💙

The Callaway County Sheriff’s Office recently had the honor of celebrating two Life Saving Awards—one recognizing an incident in the Callaway County Jail in 2025, and another recognizing the lifesaving actions of a Callaway County Deputy in 2026.

On September 18, 2026, we gathered with family members and fellow co-workers to recognize Lena Schmidt, David Robinson, Quinton Goldman, Anthony Keith, and Deputy Zach Hubbard for going above and beyond what is required in their everyday duties.
Through their quick actions, dedication, and commitment to the people they serve, these individuals played a critical role in saving two lives.

The Callaway County Sheriff’s Office is proud to recognize these members for their courage, professionalism, and willingness to act when it mattered most. Their actions are a powerful reminder that the work of our sheriff’s office extends far beyond the routine responsibilities of the job—it is about being there for others when they need help the most.

Please join us in congratulating Lena, David, Quinton, Anthony, and Deputy Zach on receiving this well-deserved recognition. We are grateful for their service and proud to have them as members of the Callaway County Sheriff’s Office.

👏 Congratulations, and thank you for making a difference when it mattered most! 🇺🇸

09/24/2026

Some thought it would never happen. Others refused to believe the rumors. But after 36 years of service, we can finally confirm it…

Sergeant Freddie Cave is retiring! 🎉

Yes, this is real. No, Freddie is not just taking a few days off.

Please join us on Friday, October 2, 2026, at the Fulton Event Center as we celebrate Freddie’s remarkable career and thank him for his service to Callaway County.

🕔 5:00–6:00 p.m.
Former CCSO staff, law enforcement, jail employees and court staff

🕕 6:00–7:00 p.m.
Open to the public

Stop by to congratulate Freddie, share a story and wish him well in retirement. After 36 years, we think he has earned at least one evening where nobody asks him to transport anyone anywhere!

09/16/2026

On 09/09/2026 Callaway County Joint Communications was notified that Missouri State Highway Patrol was in pursuit of a motorcycle US Highway 54 in Callaway County. Deputies responded to the area and were advised that Missouri State Highway patrol lost sight of the motorcycle, due to dust, in the area of County Road 230. Deputies in the area located on the motorcycle and attempted to stop it again, but the driver, identified as Zachary Seay, 19 of Fulton, fled from deputies. The pursuit came to an end at County Road 230 near County Road 257 after Seay wrecked the motorcycle and fled on foot. Seay was taken into custody, received medical attention and was then transported to the Callaway County Jail. Seay was a suspect in other investigations, involving stolen items by Callaway County Sheriff's Office and Fulton Police Department.

The Callaway County Prosecuting Attorney's Office filed formal charges against Seay on 9/10/2026. Seay remains in the Callaway County Jail on a no bond for the following charges:

- Two counts of Stealing motor vehicle/watercraft/aircraft
- Two counts of Tamping with a motor vehicle 1st degree
- Resisting/interfering with arrest for a felony
- Aggravated fleeing a stop or detention

The Callaway County Sheriff’s Office appreciates the efforts of the deputies, investigators, and partner agencies involved in these investigations. The Sheriff’s Office and its law enforcement partners remain committed to disrupting the distribution of illegal narcotics and protecting the safety of our communities.

These charges are merely allegations. Seay presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

Anyone with information regarding criminal activity is encouraged to contact Callaway County CrimeStoppers anonymously by calling (573) 592-2474 or by visiting the Callaway County Sheriff’s Office website.

09/11/2026

BRENDA OLLAR RETIRES AFTER MORE THAN TWO DECADES OF SERVICE

The Callaway County Sheriff’s Office announces the retirement of Brenda Ollar following more than two decades of dedicated service to Callaway County.

Ollar began her career with the Sheriff’s Office in 2003 as a detention officer at the Callaway County Jail. Over the years, she served the agency in several roles and concluded her career as the Jail’s administrative assistant/bookkeeper.

In that position, Ollar was responsible for inmate accounting, commissary operations, financial recordkeeping, and countless other administrative and day-to-day responsibilities that helped keep the facility running smoothly. Much of her work occurred behind the scenes, but her contributions were essential to the daily operation of the Callaway County Jail.

Ollar’s experience, institutional knowledge, and dedication to her coworkers and the citizens of Callaway County will be greatly missed.

We congratulate Brenda on her well-earned retirement, thank her for her many years of faithful service, and wish her all the best in this next chapter of her life.

09/11/2026

SERGEANT JACOB MUEHRING RECEIVES PRESTIGIOUS G.W. LAW - LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER OF THE YEAR AWARD FROM FULTON ROTARY INTERNATIONAL CLUB

The Callaway County Sheriff's Office is proud to announce that Sgt. Jacob Muehring has been honored with the G.W. Law - Law Enforcement Officer of the Year Award by the Fulton Rotary International Club. This distinguished award, established in 1998, serves to commemorate the exemplary service and ultimate sacrifice of former Callaway County Sheriff George W. Law. Sgt. Muehring s unwavering commitment to the community, consistent adherence to the Rotary ideal of "Service above self," and dedication to upholding the law made him a standout choice for this prestigious award.

The G.W. Law - Law Enforcement Officer of the Year Award is a testament to Sgt. Muehring's dedication and leadership within the Sheriff's Office. Fellow deputies and the community at large recognize him as a role model for law enforcement professionals and as a symbol of the highest standards of service.

The Fulton Rotary International Club hosted an award ceremony on September 9, 2026 and formally presented Sgt. Jacob Muehring with the G.W. Law - Law Enforcement Officer of the Year Award.

About the Fulton Rotary International Club:

The Fulton International Rotary Club is a community organization dedicated to serving the citizens of Fulton and the surrounding areas. Through various charitable initiatives and community service projects, the club upholds the Rotary ideal of "Service above self" and seeks to make a positive impact on the lives of those it serves.
The Callaway County Sheriff's Office is committed to providing professional law enforcement services while engaging positive relationships with the community in which we serve. The Sheriff's Office works tirelessly to ensure the safety and security of Callaway County residents.

Pictured in the last photo are previous GW Law Award Recipients, left to right:
1998 - Investigator Bob Smith (former CCSO now with the Prosecutor's Office)
2006- Deputy Fred Cave (CCSO)
2009- Deputy Jeff Harding (CCSO)
2011- Deputy Jackie Karhoff- retired (CCSO)
2012- Former Sheriff Dennis Crane (CCSO)
2014 - Sheriff Darryl Maylee (CCSO)
2017- Deputy Aaron Hazelton (Former CCSO now Cole County)
2018- Lieutenant Ryan Lacey (CCSO)
2019- Former Sheriff Clay Chism (CCSO
2020 - Lieutenant Corey Schmidt (CCSO)
2021 - Investigative Sgt. Crystal Kent (former FPD now CCSO)
2022 - Sergeant Billy Kamp (CCSO)
2023 - Deputy John Nielsen (CCSO)
2025- Deputy John Bax and Cpl. Garnder Pottorff (CCSO)
2026- Sgt. Jacob Muehring (CCSO)

09/07/2026

On September 5, 2026, Callaway County Sheriff’s deputies conducted a traffic stop on a Chevrolet Astro van in the 4400 block of State Route J. The occupants were identified as Dennis Schwab, 63, of Fulton, and Crystal Stram, 39, of Boonville.

During the investigation, deputies, assisted by task force officers with the MUSTANG Drug Task Force, located methamphetamine and a fi***rm inside the vehicle.

Later that evening, members of the MUSTANG Drug Task Force executed a search warrant at Schwab’s residence in the 5900 block of Shelly Drive. During the search, investigators located and seized 18 fi***rms, approximately 6 grams of methamphetamine, approximately 5 grams of psilocybin mushrooms, and multiple items of drug paraphernalia. Schwab was transported to the Callaway County Jail.

On September 6, 2026, the Callaway County Prosecuting Attorney formally charged Schwab with two counts of Delivery of a Controlled Substance, Unlawful Use of a Weapon (Subsection 11), and Drug Paraphernalia. Schwab remains in the Callaway County Jail and is being held without bond.

Also on September 6, 2026, Callaway County Sheriff’s deputies conducted a traffic stop on U.S. Highway 54 near State Road T. The occupants were identified as Keith Arney, 41, of Raytown, and Chelsea Knowles, 37, of Kansas City.

During the investigation, deputies, assisted by task force officers with the MUSTANG Drug Task Force, located a fi***rm, 370 grams (.7 pounds) methamphetamine, P*P, Xanax, and drug paraphernalia. Arney and Knowles were transported to the Callaway County Jail. Knowles also had an active arrest warrant from Cass County.

On September 7, 2026 Callaway County Prosecuting Attorney formally filed charges for the following:
Keith Arney:
- Trafficking in the Second Degree
- Possession of a Controlled Substance
- Two counts of Unlawful Possession of a Fi***rm (Felon in Possession)
- Unlawful Use of a Weapon
- Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
- Tampering with Physical Evidence in a Felony Prosecution.

Chelsea Knowles:
-Three counts of Possession of a Controlled Substance
-Tampering with Physical Evidence in a Felony Prosecution.

Arney and Knowles remain in the custody of the Callaway County Jail on a no bond.

The Callaway County Sheriff’s Office appreciates the efforts of the deputies, investigators, and partner agencies involved in these investigations, including the MUSTANG Drug Task Force. The Sheriff’s Office and its law enforcement partners remain committed to disrupting the distribution of illegal narcotics and protecting the safety of our communities.

These charges are merely allegations. All persons are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

Anyone with information regarding criminal activity is encouraged to contact Callaway County CrimeStoppers anonymously by calling (573) 592-2474 or by visiting the Callaway County Sheriff’s Office website.