MISSOURI STATE HIGHWAY PATROL
a division of the
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

Divsion of Drug and Crime Control-P.O. Box 568, Jefferson City, Missouri 65102

Press Release

For further information please contact: Sergeant Bradley R. Germann
573-526-6122
01/31/2025
January 31, 2025

EMPHASIS: Savannah, Missouri, Man Arrested For Sexual Trafficking Of A Child

The Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control announces the arrest of Ross S. Rutherford, 32, of Savannah, Mo. Rutherford was arrested on January 29, 2025, for one count of 2nd-degree sexual trafficking of a child. The arrest followed an investigation conducted by the Special Victims Unit of the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control. The Missouri State Highway Patrol was assisted by the Maryville Department of Public Safety and the Jackson Police Department.

In September 2024, investigators with the Special Victims Unit were notified of a social media account tied to Ross S. Rutherford. Rutherford had allegedly contacted a 13-year-old via a messaging app and engaged in sexually charged conversations with the juvenile, including sending pornographic images and videos.

On Wednesday, January 29, 2025, investigators located Rutherford in Maryville, Missouri. After questioning, investigators arrested and transported Rutherford to the Andrew County Jail.

On Thursday, January 30, 2025, the Andrew County Prosecuting Attorney formally charged Rutherford with one count of 2nd-degree sexual trafficking of a child. Rutherford is being held at the Andrew County Jail without bond.

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.

The Division of Drug and Crime Control encourages internet users to promptly report to the Patrol or local law enforcement anyone who attempts to engage in unwanted, inappropriate, or sexualized communications with children.

Follow the Missouri State Highway Patrol on X @MSHPTrooperDDCC


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