Erik Dailing, 46, of Bucyrus, was sentenced to 12 years in prison last week.
Dailing was charged in May 2017 with two counts of first-degree assault (a class A felony) after an incident in which he reportedly brandished a .45-caliber pistol and AR-15 rifle and threatened to kill Texas County Sheriff’s Department deputies while retreating into Success Baptist Church.
“But for the swift action of the sheriff’s department, no one was injured during the course of Mr. Dailing’s actions,” said Texas County Prosecuting Attorney Parke Stevens Jr.
Dailing reportedly had called authorities to report his wife was leaving him and trying to take their two children. A deputy’s report said Dailing’s wife had also called indicating he had a gun and was pacing the yard, not allowing her to leave.
When officers arrived at the church, Dailing reportedly threatened them. He then refused to disarm and moved into the church, where he had ordered his children to go. After arriving, officers began communication with Dailing, and were eventually able to tackle him to the ground and apprehend him.
A grand jury later indicted Dailing. After one day of evidence at trial, he chose to plead guilty by an Alford plea on Nov. 1, 2018. Judge John Beger sentenced him on Jan. 22 to two, 12-year sentences that are to run concurrently. An Alford plea by a defendant indicates there is enough evidence to convict the person but claims innocence.
“The calm and collected actions of the sheriff’s department saved lives on this date, be it Mr. Dailing’s or innocent bystanders,” Stevens said. “Two 12-year sentences in the Missouri Department of Corrections ensure the defendant will likely never hurt anyone else. I want to express sorrow for the family and victims of Mr. Dailing’s actions and hopes their grieving is lessened now that he has been punished.
“Further, I want to thank all the law enforcement personnel who worked the case, Judge Beger for overseeing the case and the defense counsel for Mr. Dailing. The actions of all these individuals enable the criminal justice system to seek justice.”