The Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control (DDCC) announces formal charges against Melvin J. Fincher, 39, of Rolla, MO.

Fincher was arrested on March 9, 2026, after an investigation by the Rural Crimes Investigation Unit (RCIU) of DDCC.

On September 3, 2025, the Polk County Sheriff requested assistance from the RCIU with the investigation of the theft of cattle from a local county resident. Polk County Sheriff Danny Morrison identified the suspect in the investigation as Fincher. Fincher was also identified as a possible suspect in two other cattle thefts, one of which occurred in Barry County, MO.

DDCC investigators identified patterns similar to other cattle theft incidents across the state, including those in Polk and Phelps Counties. Investigators followed up on several leads and obtained additional evidence to develop probable cause for arrest. Investigators sent a probable cause statement to the Barry County Prosecutor seeking a felony charge.

On February 11, 2026, Fincher was formally charged by the Barry County Prosecuting Attorney with one count of Stealing Livestock/Wildlife - Prior Offense, and a warrant was issued for his arrest.

On March 9, 2026, Operation Relentless Pursuit Officers and members of the U.S. Marshals Service located Fincher in Neosho, MO. He was taken into custody without incident and transported to the Newton County Jail. Bail was set at $50,000.00.

The above charge is a mere accusation and is not evidence of guilt. Evidence in support of this charge must be presented before a court of competent jurisdiction whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence. DDCC is commited to serving those in our rural communities, and encourages anyone with information regarding livestock theft to report it to the Missouri Livestock and Farm Protection Task Force at 888-484-8477.

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