Moscow Mills Man Arrested After Children Disclose Abuse, Bruising Documented

Moscow Mills, Mo. — A Lincoln County man is facing multiple felony charges after investigators say two children disclosed physical abuse that prompted a multi-agency response and an arrest earlier this month.

According to information confirmed by Lincoln CountyWatch, John Donald Wittenauer has been charged with one count of abuse or neglect of a child and two counts of endangering the welfare of a child in the second degree. The charges stem from allegations involving two children under the age of 12.

John Donald Wittenauer, Charged in Lincoln County following allegations involving child abuse. All charges are allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.

Investigators say the case began after allegations of abuse were reported, leading to involvement from law enforcement and the Children’s Division. Authorities documented injuries consistent with the allegations during the investigation.

The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division later assumed the case and conducted follow-up interviews. Investigators reported that the accounts provided were consistent and related to an incident that occurred inside the residence.

Investigators documented concerns about cooperation with Children’s Division during the early stages of the investigation.

A warrant for Wittenauer’s arrest was issued in Lincoln County Circuit Court. Bond has been set at $30,000 cash only, and Wittenauer remains in custody at the Lincoln County Jail. The warrant was signed by Associate Circuit Judge Michael Jacobs.

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Lincoln CountyWatch was on scene during law enforcement activity connected to the investigation and issued a community alert that evening due to the visible police presence. The Lincoln County Sheriff later confirmed directly to Lincoln CountyWatch that there was no threat to public safety and that individuals were being taken into custody in reference to an ongoing investigation.

The case remains active. No trial date has been announced, and additional court proceedings are expected.

All allegations are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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This article was written by John Eads. Have information, documents, photos, or confirmed updates related to this story? You can message Lincoln CountyWatch, email tips@LincolnCountyWatch.com, or call/text 636-377-0201.

All information provided is based on available sources at the time of publication and is subject to change. Allegations mentioned are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Lincoln CountyWatch does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of information provided by third parties.