Man suspected of taking money meant for disabled son

An arrest warrant was issued for a man accused of stealing more than $2,000 under the guise of collecting it for his disabled son during a Cape Girardeau high school basketball game.

Timothy J. Heuring, 45, of 613 Sycamore St., was charged Friday with felony stealing by deceit. Bond was set at $10,000 cash only, and Heuring was still sought by authorities as of Monday night.

At a Notre Dame Regional High School basketball game Feb. 10, a letter was read urging spectators to donate money for Heuring's son, Damien Heuring, 20, a probable-cause statement said.

The letter read that Damien Heuring suffered a spinal cord injury in a Dec. 8 car accident and would be unable to walk again, according to the statement. Donations were to go to the purchase of a wheelchair.

Spectators gave $2,202.58 that night, which was deposited by the school's assistant principal into a Bank of Missouri account. The account, "Timothy J. Heuring for the Benefit of Damien J. Heuring," was opened by the defendant some time after Jan. 12.

Heuring later withdrew the donated money from the account, along with donations collected from other high schools in the area, according to the statement. As of May 11, there was no money in the account.

Damien Heuring said the only cash gifts he has ever received from his father was $500, which was given to him before Feb. 14.

Since the accident, Damien Heuring lives with his mother, who covers his daily expenses, the statement read.

Timothy Heuring has a history of felony convictions, including forgery, bank fraud and stealing.

kmorrison@semissourian.com

335-6611, extension 127