Region briefs 3/4/08

Autism groups plan to recognize lawmakers

Local and state autism groups will recognize lawmakers this week. At 9:30 a.m. Thursday, the Statewide Advisory Committee for the Missouri Autism Projects is sponsoring an autism rally in Jefferson City to express appreciation to lawmakers for helping bring more awareness to autism-related issues in Missouri. On Friday, the Tailor Institute in Cape Girardeau will recognize Sen. Jason Crowell for his support of autism efforts. The event will be held from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. in the Marquette Towers lobby. The Tailor Institute was designed for individuals diagnosed with high-functioning autism or Asperger's syndrome who demonstrate areas of giftedness. The Tailor Institute program helps autistic people have a greater chance to become gainfully employed and live as independently as possible, providing training for social skills, independent living skills and work force development skills.

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Shooting leaves two in jail, one in hospital

SIKESTON, Mo. -- Two men were in the Scott County Jail this weekend on felony charges and another was in a Cape Girardeau hospital following a shooting early Friday morning, according to the Standard Democrat. The incident occurred after 2 a.m. north of Sikeston, according to a news release from Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter, after an argument between two cousins who are neighbors on Sandywood Street. According to the news release, Walter Wells, 38, of rural Sikeston, allegedly shot the victim, Terry Robbins, also of rural Sikeston, in the upper arm and chest with a sawed-off .22-caliber rifle. A short time later, Gary Robbins, 31, of rural Sikeston, allegedly fired nine shots into Wells' home with a 9mm handgun. The suspects were arrested at the scene by Scott County Sheriff's deputies. Wells is charged with first degree assault, armed criminal action and unlawful use of a weapon. Gary Robbins is charged with unlawful use of a weapon, endangering the welfare of a child and property damage.

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Hearing rescheduled for Stoddard County jailer

KENNETT, Mo. -- A Stoddard County jailer accused of having sexual contact with a female inmate had his hearing rescheduled last week, according to the Dexter Daily Statesman. According to court documents, 29-year-old William R. Dowdy of Dexter, Mo., will next appear in a Dunklin County courtroom at 10:30 a.m. April 9, after his attorney and Dunklin County Prosecuting Attorney Stephen Sokoloff rescheduled his Feb. 27 appearance. Charges against Dowdy stem from an incident which allegedly took place in January at the Stoddard County Jail. He has been charged with the felony of having sexual contact with an inmate. He has previously pleaded not guilty to the charges.

-- From staff reports