Jackson man missed southwest Missouri court date while sitting in Cape Girardeau County jail

OZARK, Mo. -- A Jackson man who missed a court date in southwest Missouri on kidnapping charges did so because he was in jail in Cape Girardeau County.

Scott A. Pikey is charged in Christian County with two counts of felony kidnapping and one count of violating a protection order. His attorney, Christopher Swatosh, said Circuit Court Judge Mark Orr issued a warrant for Pikey's arrest when both he and his client missed a hearing earlier this month, but that he has since filed a motion with the court to have it recalled.

Capt. James Mulcahy said Pikey is set to be released from the Cape Girardeau County jail Nov. 4, but expects him to be transported soon to face charges in Christian County.

Pikey was ordered to serve a year in jail in November in Cape Girardeau County for a probation violation after he violated a protection order.

Swatosh said his father-in-law died Jan. 5 and the following day his staff sent communication via fax requesting a continuance with the courts he was to appear in Jan. 7. Each court, except Christian County, received his request.

"It wasn't his fault ... It was a technological breakdown at the courthouse," Swatosh said.

Pikey is accused of kidnapping his children from a domestic violence shelter in Ozark. Authorities allege he also tracked down his former wife at the shelter, violating a protection order issued by the court.

Swatosh said he expects Orr to review his motion to recall the warrant issue for Pikey's arrest next week.

ehevern@semissourian.com

388-3635

Pertinent Address:

Ozark, MO