Cold case solved after 35 years. Three men arrested for murder, rape, and kidnapping
After 35 years, a breakthrough in a Missouri cold case murder has emerged, officials announced, crediting a new witness's crucial information for solving the decades-old mystery
3:11 PM EST, February 22, 2024
In a significant breakthrough, Douglas County officials have confirmed the arrest and indictment of three individuals linked to the 1989 murder of 24-year-old Kelle Ann Workman. Facing charges of first-degree murder, forcible rape, and kidnapping, the accused are currently detained with bail set at $250,000 cash-only. Legal representation for the trio remains unassigned, according to recent court documents.
In a case that has puzzled authorities, a worker vanished while mowing the lawn at a remote cemetery in southwestern Missouri on June 30, 1989. A week after her disappearance, searchers discovered her body in a creek, over 10 miles from where she was last seen, sparking a lengthy investigation.
Douglas County Circuit Court has indicted Bobby Lee Banks for the 1989 crimes against Kelle Ann Workman, encompassing murder, kidnapping, and rape. Douglas County Sheriff Chris Degase disclosed the arrest of three individuals linked to Workman's case, including Banks' brother, Leonard (also known as Dwight), and Wiley Belt, underscoring their longstanding suspicion in the investigation.
The end of the conference left people promised as quick justice as it can be after 35 years. Sherriff assured that he will be calling for a trial to take place as soon as possible
Sources: ABC News; Springfield News Leader
