Lincoln County Grand Jury Indicts Silex Man in Sex Offender Case Tied to Fall Festival
- John Eads
- Dec 29, 2025
- 3 min read
SILEX, Mo. — A Lincoln County grand jury has returned an indictment against a Silex man following an investigation by the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Department related to alleged violations of Missouri sex offender laws.
Court records show David Wayne Heimburger, a registered sex offender, has been charged with multiple felony counts, including failure to properly register as a sex offender and being physically present within restricted distance of a public park where children were present. The charges stem from incidents alleged to have occurred in October and November.
According to court documents filed in Lincoln County Circuit Court, the indictment includes one count of failing to register as a sex offender and additional counts alleging the defendant was present within 500 feet of a public park in violation of state law. Each count is classified as a felony offense under Missouri statutes.
A warrant for Heimburger’s arrest was issued earlier this month. Prosecutors requested a bond of $10,000 cash only, which was ordered by the court. Jail records indicate the defendant is currently in custody.
The Lincoln County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office confirmed the charges were sought following a report submitted by the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Department. The case is now pending before the 45th Judicial Circuit Court.
Background of the Investigation
The investigation that led to the indictment followed public discussion surrounding the Silex Fall Festival, which took place at Silex Memorial Park, a public venue commonly used for family and community events.
During a November meeting of the Silex Board of Aldermen, concerns were raised regarding Heimburger’s presence at the festival and whether his involvement complied with Missouri law governing registered sex offenders. The matter was discussed publicly during that meeting, prompting further review by law enforcement.
Silex Mayor Lynne Luckett later confirmed in a written statement that she had recruited Heimburger to assist with the festival in a limited role as master of ceremonies. In her statement, the mayor acknowledged the controversy and stated that, while the situation could have been handled differently, she did not believe children were placed at risk. She noted that the individual remained near the stage area and was not responsible for supervising children or youth activities.
Heimburger has been listed on the Missouri Sex Offender Registry for several years. Registry records indicate he was convicted of a sex offense in another state in the 1980s and has been subject to Missouri registration requirements since relocating to Lincoln County.
Following the board meeting and public discussion, the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Department reviewed the matter and submitted findings to the prosecuting attorney, ultimately resulting in the grand jury indictment.
Ongoing Proceedings
The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law. No trial date has been set as of publication.
City officials have not announced any policy changes related to event planning or volunteer participation following the indictment. Additional court proceedings are expected.
This case remains pending in the Lincoln County court system. The charges outlined in the indictment are allegations only. All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
Lincoln CountyWatch will continue to follow this case and provide updates as official information is released through court filings or confirmed by law enforcement and court officials. No conclusions should be drawn beyond what has been formally charged and documented.
Have information, documents, photos, or updates related to this case or other matters of public concern in Lincoln County? You can message Lincoln CountyWatch, email tips@LincolnCountyWatch.com, or call/text 636-377-0201. Tips may be submitted confidentially.
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