SK man faces drug charges

Steven Grant Stellwagen, 54, of Shell Knob, has been charged with possession of a controlled substance and endangering the welfare of a child.

On May 9, the Southwest Missouri Drug Task Force and Barry County Sheriff's Department conducted a search of Stellwagen's residence on Highway 39 in Shell Knob. Drug paraphernalia that was found in the master bedroom of the residence was field tested and found to be positive for the presence of cocaine.

According to an affidavit of probable cause, Stellwagen also used crack cocaine in the presence of an individual who was under the age of 17. Allegedly, he filled his mouth with smoke from the cocaine and blew the controlled substance into the mouth of the juvenile.

The affidavit states that the juvenile drove Stellwagen and an adult female to Springfield for the purpose of purchasing crack cocaine. While in Springfield, Stellwagen allegedly allowed the juvenile to use marijuana in his presence.

When the search was conducted on Friday, Stellwagen was arrested and transported to the Barry County Jail. He posted a $50,000 bond and has been released.

Stellwagen is charged with one count of possession of a controlled substance and one count of endangering the welfare of a child in the first degree, which are both class C felonies.

Stellwagen is also awaiting a Sept. 24 trial for crimes that he allegedly committed in 2006 and 2007.

In March of 2006, Stellwagen was charged with third degree assault. In September of 2006, he was charged with violating an order of protection, tampering or attempting to tamper with a victim or witness and making a false report.

Last year, Stellwagen was charged with making a false report and harassment.