For further information please contact: Sgt. Collin Stosberg
(816) 622-0800 ext. 3149
A2012-17
May 24, 2012

EMPHASIS: Three Suspects In Richmond, MO, Homicide Arrested


On May 23, 2012, at approximately 7:09 am, Michelle Rheuport, 40, was found dead inside her residence, at 411 Farris Avenue, in Richmond, by a family member. Following an investigation, officers from the Missouri State Highway Patrol's Division of Drug and Crime Control, Ray County Sheriff's Department and the Richmond Police Department arrested three Richmond, MO, residents for the murder of Michelle Rheuport:

Brandon Scott Simpson, 25 -- Murder first degree -- Class A felony, Burglary first degree -- Class B felony, Stealing -- Class C felony -- Simpson was also arrested for a Probation and Parole violation warrant.

James Gant, 25 -- Murder second degree -- Class A felony, Burglary first degree-- Class B felony, Stealing -- Class C felony -- Gant was also arrested for a Probation and Parole violation warrant.

Lauren Gabbard, 23 -- Murder second degree -- Class A felony, Burglary first degree -- Class B felony, and Stealing -- Class C felony.

All three subjects are being held at the Ray County Jail on a $1,000,000.00 cash or surety bond. The charges for which the above individuals were arrested are mere accusation and are not evidence of guilt. Evidence in support of the charges must be presented before a court of competent jurisdiction whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.


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