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independent@htc.net |
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If it happens in Monroe County, it's news to us! |
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Breaking News - December 20, 2007
Christopher Alexander, 20, of Dupo has been arrested in connection with yesterday’s abduction of a 14-year-old Columbia girl. He has been charged with felony counts of armed violence, criminal sexual abuse, aggravated battery and theft. He currently is being held at a jail in St. Louis with bond set at $100,000. Monroe County State’s Attorney Kris Reitz is working to have Alexander extradited to Monroe County. Alexander had some type of relationship with the girl, Brittany Adkins, according to Columbia Police Chief Joe Edwards. Because the case is pending, he would not elaborate on additional details. “This is not a random case of someone breaking into a home and taking a child,” said Edwards. After being checked over at a hospital yesterday, she was released with a clean bill of health and is back at home with her mother. “This is a perfect example of how an Amber Alert should work,” said Edwards. “I couldn’t think of a better outcome.” During a press conference this morning, Edwards wanted to publicly thank the efforts of the area police departments and the media for their work in apprehending the suspect. A motorist driving on I-255 yesterday heard the Amber Alert on the radio and saw a car matching the description. Collinsville police were soon following Alexander and were led on a pursuit which ended in South St. Louis. Alexander was pulled over and taken into custody. “The crime was brought to an end because of the cooperative effort between law enforcement, the media and the public,” said Edwards. Waterloo Home Destroyed By Fire
The home Robert and Gail Lambert of rural Waterloo was destroyed in a fire this morning. Lightning struck the home, located on Andy Road, causing a blaze to ignite in the roof. The fire quickly spread through the rest of the structure. “We just completed the home and just moved in,” said Robert Lambert. The Lamberts and their two cats were able to safely get out of the home. Firefigthters from Waterloo Columbia, Valmeyer and Millstadt worked feverishly to put out the fire, with several water hoses aimed at the structure. It is not determined yet if any of their possessions could be salvaged.
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