Region briefs 7/29/04

Secretary of state expects high Tuesday turnout

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- Voter turnout for Missouri's primary elections next Tuesday is expected to be an unusually high 37 percent, the secretary of state's office said Wednesday. The ballot features a heated battle in the Democratic primary for governor, as well as primaries for other federal, state and local offices and two proposed constitutional amendments that delve into deeply held cultural beliefs on gay marriage and gambling.

Butler County sheriff cleared of all charges

POPLAR BLUFF, Mo. -- After reviewing investigative reports, a special prosecutor Morley Swingle dismissed the remaining misdemeanor charges against Butler County Sheriff Bill Heaton Wednesday. The dismissal of the misdemeanors of stealing by deceit and tampering with a witness against Heaton, 60, comes less than two days after a felony charge against the sheriff was also dismissed.

Independent audit gives McCaskill positive review

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- An independent audit released Wednesday gives a good job review to State Auditor Claire McCaskill's office. The audit, commissioned by the legislature and conducted by a Kansas City auditing firm, looked at the financial books and performance of the state auditor's office during the past three fiscal years. The audit concluded McCaskill's offices carries out its functions under state law "in a professional, efficient and economical manner."

-- From wire reports