Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway announced that her office, appointed by Judge Privette as special prosecutor, has filed criminal charges in Shannon County against three members of the Shannon County Sheriff’s Office: Deputy Thomas R. Manning, former sheriff’s deputy John D. “J.D.” Melvin and Captain Michael G. McCoy.
“Law enforcement officers hold positions of immense trust and responsibility,” Hanaway said. “The conduct alleged is not only illegal, but it is also predatory and a disgrace to the badge and to the honorable men and women who serve and protect our communities every day. We will work tirelessly to get these victims the justice they deserve and ensure that every individual responsible for abusing their authority is held fully accountable under the law.”
The alleged conduct occurred between Jan. 1 and July 29, 2025, while the individuals were acting in their official capacities as law enforcement officers. The Missouri State Highway Patrol conducted an investigation.
The allegations outline repeated instances in which women stopped during traffic encounters were subjected to inappropriate touching and degrading sexual comments. The charging documents further allege that McCoy and Melvin engaged in forgery involving official court documents, including the alleged falsification or transfer of a probable cause statement intended to influence judicial proceedings.
- Deputy Thomas R. Manning faces seven counts of sexual misconduct in the course of public duty, two counts of first-degree sexual abuse, three counts of first-degree harassment and one count of sodomy or attempted sodomy, first degree. His bond has been set at $50,000.
- Captain Michael G. McCoy has been charged with one count of sexual misconduct in the course of public duty and one count of forgery, with bond set at $15,000.
- Former Deputy John D. “J.D.” Melvin has been charged with one count of forgery, and his bond has also been set at $15,000.
“The people of Shannon County deserve justice and accountability,” Hanaway said. “We will pursue the truth and ensure that anyone who abuses their position is held responsible.”