From the Howell County Sheriff’s Department:
On November 25, 2025, the Howell County Sheriff’s Office received a theft report from Great Rivers Distributing in Pomona, MO. Surveillance footage provided investigators with a suspect and vehicle description.
On November 28, Deputy First Class Colter Reid and Sergeant Seth Smith spotted a vehicle matching that description on County Road 1750 near West Plains. When officers attempted a traffic stop, the vehicle failed to yield, leading to a short pursuit.
The vehicle eventually stopped, and one passenger fled on foot but was quickly apprehended by Sgt. Smith. Both occupants were taken into custody.
Elijah Harper, 28, of West Plains, was transported to the Howell County Jail and placed on a 24-hour hold. On November 29, Harper was formally charged with Aggravated Fleeing a Stop or Detention and given a $25,000 bond, which he posted before being released on November 30.
