Change of Venue sought by Healea

Healea is facing five felony charges related to an incident in Columbia

A Change of Venue is being sought by Moniteau County Prosecuting Attorney Shayne Healea, who is facing five felony charges related to an incident in Columbia at Addison's restaurant. On Saturday, Oct. 25, he is alleged to have backed a Ford F-150 crew cab pickup truck, with tailgate lowered, into a glass wall of Addison's Grill about 7:30 p.m., driving a short distance away, parking in front of the Tiger Hotel, then leaving the vehicle.

A grand jury indicted him in November on multiple felony charges for the incident. An out-of-town jury is being sought due to the media coverage, which he thinks will prejudice prospective jurors.

In a statement released to the press, Healea said he wasn't aware of the crash. When informed of it, he returned to the scene and identified himself to police as the driver.

The felony charges relate to leaving the scene of an accident and assault charges relating to the individuals which are alleged to have sustained injuries in the incident.

Although the indictment alleged that Healea was under the influence of alcohol and refused a breath-alcohol test, he has not been charged with alcohol-related offenses.

A special prosecutor has been assigned at the request of the Boone County Prosecutor, who recused him from the case. A Trial by Jury has been set to begin March 11, 2015.

Healea was re-elected Prosecuting Attorney in November.