News Release

For further information please contact: Sgt. Jason Clark
(573) 522-0980
DDCC12112008
December 11, 2008

EMPHASIS: Homicide Investigation


On November 15, 2008, the Laclede County Sheriff’s Department and the Missouri State Highway Patrol initiated a homicide investigation in reference to an unidentified female whose body was located in a black utility box encased in concrete in rural Laclede County.

During the course of the joint investigation, authorities obtained information provided by a private citizen through a tip line, which was established specifically for this investigation. Through the use of forensic DNA testing, authorities were able to identify the victim in this investigation as Sharon K. Sabla, 57, of Lebanon, Missouri. Sabla was discovered murdered; the victim of a single gunshot wound.

Additional evidence and information obtained led officers to question Sabla’s husband, Horst Gunter Sabla, 54, in the homicide investigation. Sabla has been arrested for 1st degree murder and armed criminal action. Sabla is currently being held without bond in the Laclede County Jail, Lebanon, Missouri.

The above charges are mere accusations and are not evidence of guilt. Evidence in support of these charges must be presented before a court of competent jurisdiction whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

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