Don't Skip Court

Donald R. Patton, a Marshfield resident, has been charged with a Class D felony of possessing a controlled substance.

On Thursday, Dec 1, Patrolmen Garret Fannen was on another call at the Clark Gas station on Jackson St. when he noticed an individual acting suspicious towards the back of the store. After finally getting a good look at the individual, Fannen recognized it was Patton from previous encounters. After finishing the initial call, Fannen had dispatch check if Patton had any warrants.

Dispatch confirmed Patton had seven warrants out for his rest. Most were for failing to appear in court for traffic violations. Fannen went back into the gas station and spoke to Patton, who was found playing a game machine. Officer Fannen informed Patton of his active warrants to which Patton said, “I know, but I’m getting ready to go back to work, and I can not go back to jail.”

Officer Fannen asked Patton to put his hands behind his back. Instead, Patton attempted to reach for something out of pocket. Officer Fannen warned him not to reach for anything, but Patton continued to reach. Officer Fannen then grabbed one of his arms, and Patton then complied. After Patton was arrested, a search revealed that on his person was one baggie containing a white substance, another with a crystal substance, and two capped syringes. Patton admitted it was meth.

Punishment for a Class D Felony ranges from seven years in the Missouri department of corrections, one special term in county jail, a fine up to $10,000, or any combination. With Judge Chuck Replogle, Patton is scheduled to appear in court for a bond reduction on Dec 13.