Community News

Two women charged with second-degree murder after fatal shooting during police search

Paris, MO

Two women are facing second-degree felony murder charges following a police search that led to a deadly shooting. Patty Armour, 51, and Lois Armour, 78, were arrested after allegedly misleading law enforcement about the whereabouts of a man wanted in a murder investigation.

Law enforcement arrived at a residence in Paris, Missouri, on October 12 as part of a probe into a homicide in Ralls County. During their encounter, the women informed officers that 57-year-old Charles Armour was not present, despite him being concealed in the master bathroom and armed.

Authorities eventually located Charles Armour, who opened fire on officers, injuring one. This officer was treated at an area hospital and later released, while the suspect died during the exchange of gunfire.

Patty and Lois Armour, initially arrested on felony hindering prosecution charges, are now being held without bond due to the new murder charges. Their initial bond was set at $50,000, which increased to $100,000 before they were denied bail.

The relationship between the women and Charles Armour remains unclear. They are scheduled to appear in Monroe County court on Wednesday.

Judge arrested for DUI after driving the wrong way on Iowa highway

Boone, IA A judge from Iowa’s Second Judicial District was arrested for operating while intoxicated after driving the wrong way on U.S. Highway 30. Adria Kester, the chief judge of the district, was found passed out behind the wheel after crashing into a median.

Witnesses reported seeing Kester’s vehicle, a 2026 GMC Canyon Denali, traveling east in the westbound lanes around 8 p.m. on Nov. 4. Concerned motorists called 911 as Kester’s truck moved slowly and ultimately collided with the median, where she was seen slumped over the wheel.

Deputies from the Boone County Sheriff’s Office responded, locating Kester unconscious in the driver’s seat. Upon their arrival, they discovered a cup containing a liquid that smelled like alcohol beside her, along with evident signs of intoxication, such as bloodshot eyes and slurred speech.

Due to her condition, law enforcement determined it was unsafe to administer field sobriety tests. Kester was taken to the hospital for treatment, where authorities collected blood samples for analysis, and results remain pending.

Kester’s attorney stated that she understands the severity of the situation and is cooperating with the legal process. He added that she is committed to tackling the matter responsibly.

Kester has held her position as a judge since 2017, following a career as a prosecutor, public defender, and private defense attorney.

Weirton landlord injured after tenant confronts him over loud music

Weirton, WV A landlord suffered serious injuries after a confrontation with his tenant escalated. The incident stemmed from a dispute over loud music being played by the landlord while he was performing work on his home.

Michael Besozzi II, age 36, received a prison sentence ranging from one to five years following an Alford plea related to the April incident. The Brooke County Prosecuting Attorney’s office confirmed the sentencing on Saturday.

Besozzi’s landlord sustained a separated shoulder and torn rotator cuff after falling from scaffolding. According to a criminal complaint, the tenant confronted his landlord about the noise and allegedly shook the scaffolding, leading to the fall.

Following the incident, police interviewed the landlord at the hospital, where he described being pushed by Besozzi. The first police response to the scene occurred when officers found the landlord receiving care from emergency medical technicians.

Initially charged with misdemeanor assault, Besozzi later faced felony charges after a court appearance. The ongoing case highlights the consequences that can result from disputes between landlords and tenants.