The Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control (DDCC) announces the arrest of Dennis C. Hope, 31, of Steeleville, MO. Hope was arrested on April 1, 2026, after investigators obtained probable cause connecting Hope to the theft of state-owned property in Cuba, MO. Hope’s arrest is the result of an investigation conducted by members of DDCC, with assistance from the Crawford County Sheriff’s Office.

On March 31, 2026, DDCC investigators were requested to investigate an incident where specialized Highway Patrol equipment was stolen from the Missouri Department of Transportation facility in Cuba, MO. During the theft, damage was also sustained to several pieces of equipment stored at the facility. Investigators conducted several investigative leads and obtained evidence connecting Hope to the theft. All the stolen equipment was successfully located, recovered, and returned to the Patrol.

On April 1, 2026, Crawford County Deputies located Hope in Cuba, MO, where he was arrested and transported to the Crawford County Jail, pending the filing of formal charges.

On April 2, 2026, the Crawford County Prosecuting Attorney formally charged Hope with Stealing - $750 or More (class D felony), three counts of Tampering with Service of Utility or Institution (class D felony), and Property Damage (class E felony). Hope is currently being held in the Crawford County Jail without bond.

This is an ongoing investigation and anyone with information regarding this theft is encouraged to contact Troop I Headquarters at 573-368-2345.

The above charges are mere accusation 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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