News Release



For further information please contact:

Sgt. Dan Bracker (417) 895-6767 ext.253

D2004.55

December 21, 2004



EMPHASIS: Individuals charged with variety of sex crimes, child endangerment.





An investigation conducted by the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control, has resulted in the filing of multiple felony charges on four individuals by Stone County Prosecuting Attorney, Matt A. Selby. The investigation was initiated from an anonymous tip reporting possible sexual misconduct, involving the four individuals and a juvenile male. The adult males contacted the juvenile via Internet chat rooms, which eventually led to encounters that resulted in illegal sexual contact.



The investigation has led to charges being filed on Robert W. Hyland, 21, of Ava, Missouri, Jeremy M. Griffitt, 23, of Branson West and Edward A Valent, 21, a resident of Cape Fair. Arrested, also, was Laura M. Heinrich of Branson West. Hyland is charged with 1 count of child endangerment. Griffitt is charged with one count of statutory sodomy, and Valent is charged with 4 counts of statutory sodomy. Heinrich is charged with 8 felony counts of child endangerment, 8 felony counts of the use of a child in a sexual performance, and 5 counts of statutory rape, accomplice.



The charges for which the above persons are accused are mere accusations and not evidence of guilt. Evidence of guilt must be presented before a court of competent jurisdiction whose duty it is to determine guilt or innocence.