KIRKSVILLE, Mo. — A coordinated law enforcement operation across northeast Missouri has led to the arrest of six individuals in connection with sex crimes, including rape, sodomy, and possession of child pornography. The arrests were part of a broader sex offender sweep conducted by the Kirksville Police Department over the last two weeks.
The sweep is part of a long-term initiative involving multiple agencies aimed at addressing serious crimes involving sexual abuse and exploitation of minors. Several of the investigations had been ongoing for over a year and involved forensic data analysis, interviews, and inter-agency collaboration.
Those arrested include:
Levi Birmingham, 36, of Milan – charged with 1 count of rape, 2 counts of statutory rape, 1 count of sodomy, 4 counts of statutory sodomy, and 2 counts of child molestation.
Colton Daugherty, 26, of Kirksville – charged with 3 counts of sodomy and 1 count of child molestation.
John Laurent, 65, of Kirksville – charged with 2 counts of possession of child pornography.
Maurice Hall, 25, of Kirksville – charged with 1 count of statutory sodomy.
Johnathon Gerber, 25, of Kirksville – charged with 1 count of possession of child pornography.
Kendrick Daniels, 45, of Millard – charged with 1 count of statutory rape, 5 counts of rape, and 1 count of child molestation.
The effort involved support from the Adair County Prosecutor’s Office, Missouri State Highway Patrol, Adair and Sullivan County Sheriff’s Offices, St. Charles County Police Department, and Milan Police Department.
The arrests coincide with Sexual Assault Awareness Month (April), and Kirksville Police expressed their gratitude to the victims who had the courage to come forward. Authorities emphasized their ongoing commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals and pursuing justice for survivors.
The investigation is ongoing, and officials urge anyone with additional information to contact local law enforcement.
