Leon Lamb, a 52-year-old Arkansas man, appeared in a Scott County, Missouri courtroom on Monday, February 10, in connection with the 1992 murder of Mischelle Lawless. Lamb, who has been indicted for murder and armed criminal action, spoke only two words during the hearing, responding “yes, sir” to the judge. His attorney, Russ Oliver, entered a not-guilty plea on his behalf.
A Scott County grand jury indicted Lamb for Lawless’s shooting death, which occurred over three decades ago. Following the court proceedings, Oliver filed a motion to dismiss the armed criminal action charge, arguing that the statute of limitations had expired. Additionally, he requested a change of venue, seeking to have the trial moved out of Scott County. The decision on these motions will be determined by the Missouri Supreme Court, which will assign a new judge and relocate the case to another county if necessary.
After the court hearing, authorities transferred Lamb to the Cape Girardeau County Jail, where he is being held without bond. Scott County Sheriff Derrick Wheetley cited safety concerns as the reason for the transfer. According to the Cape Girardeau County Sheriff, it is not uncommon for high-profile suspects like Lamb to be held at a different detention facility for security purposes.
The case remains ongoing as the legal process moves forward.
