A former female paraprofessional at Dora High School has been charged for trying to set up a sexual meeting between a then 16-year-old student and a 34-year-old man. Facing a felony charge of first degree endangering the welfare of a child creating substantial risk is 30-year-old Koree Pendegrass of West Plains. The man, Kenneth Bradley Quin Arnold of St. James, is also facing the same charge.
According to the probable cause affidavit from the Ozark County Sheriff’s Office, the incident was reported in March of 2023. The deputy interviewed the victim who said she had been texting with Arnold who was trying to meet her for sexual intercourse. The victim told the deputy Pendegrass had texted her and been in contact with the Arnold. Pendegrass also took a picture of the victim and sent it to Arnold. The three then had a group chat before the victim and Arnold started chatting by themselves.
The juvenile told the deputy she had sent pictures of herself in a provocative manner to Arnold.
A forensic examination of the victim’s phone was done. In the text messages between her and Arnold were messages were it was suggested they meet.
Ozark County Prosecuting Attorney Curtis Lee Pipkins tells KTLO, Classic Hits and The Boot News the charge against Pendegrass was just recently filed because they had tried to work out a plea deal, but an agreement could not be made.
Arnold’s case has already moved through the system and is set for trial Oct. 8 in Ozark County.
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