BLUFF MAN GUILTY OF ASSAULT

JACKSON, Mo. -- A 28-year-old man could spend the next 22 years in prison after a jury found him guilty of stealing anhydrous ammonia and then trying to run over a Missouri Highway Patrol trooper.

Troy E. Marlow of Poplar Bluff, Mo., was found guilty on four separate charges stemming from a Nov. 15 confrontation with trooper Aaron Harrison.

Harrison had caught Marlow and two others attempting to steal anhydrous ammonia from a co-op in Whitewater, Mo. In an effort to escape, Marlow had driven a van at Harrison, who was struck by the side of the van and its mirror.

Marlow was found guilty of resisting arrest and carrying a concealed weapon, both felonies, Prosecuting Attorney Morley Swingle said.

Because of previous felony convictions involving an assault in Stoddard County and three burglaries in Carter County, Marlow can be sentenced as a prior and persistent offender. This doubles the two felonies from a maximum of 5 years to 10 years each.

Marlow was also found guilty of attempting to steal anhydrous ammonia and third-degree assault of a law enforcement officer. Jurors recommended one year in jail plus fines for the two misdemeanor crimes.

Defense attorney Daniel Moore was pleased that jurors found Marlow guilty of a lesser assault charge. He was originally charged with a class A felony of assault, which is punishable by up to 30 years or life imprisonment.

Moore filed motions seeking acquittal on the other charges. Not enough evidence was presented to show that Marlow had concealed a handgun, the attorney said.

Marlow's accomplices, Justin J. Constantino and Scott B. Guess, each pleaded guilty to attempting to steal anhydrous ammonia to make methamphetamine and received six-month jail sentences.18.