JEFFERSON CITY -- The molestation case against Jefferson City funeral director and businessman Reid Millard has been dismissed. Less than a week before his trial was scheduled to begin, Cole County Prosecutor Mark Richardson has formally withdrawn the criminal complaint.
In an affadavit signed under oath, the alleged victim, who was only 15 at the time, indicated he does not now wish to pursue prosecution and wanted the case dismissed.
Richardson tonight told KRCG News the affadavit and "other evidenciary issues" prompted him to move for dismissal just after three o'clock this afternoon. Richardson would not discuss the other evidenciary issues, but said the move was not unusual.
In 2005, former Prosecutor Bill Tackett charged Millard with sodomy, based on the boy's story that he was fondled by Millard while staying at the man's home, and on DNA evidence collected there.
We spoke with Millard by telephone this evening. He said it was his understanding that the case had been dismissed, but he had no further comment.
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