Felony Arrest - LGPD

Press Release by La Grange Police Department

For Immediate Release

Subject: Felony Arrest

Date: September 23, 2025

Incident Details:

Arrested Individual: Claude Humphrey, age 74, of La Grange, Missouri

Arrest Date: September 19, 2025

Arrest Location: La Grange, Missouri

Arrest Agency: La Grange Police Department

Charge: Class E felony, Keeping a Dangerous Dog

Incident Background:

Date of Incident: September 17, 2025

Location: La Grange, Missouri

Time:

 

Details: On September 17, 2025, members of the Lewis County Sheriff's Office were at 201 North 3rd Street, La Grange, Lewis County, Missouri in regards to a civil action involving a court ordered eviction. While speaking with Claude Humphrey about the civil action, a pit bull exited the back door where Mr. Humphrey was standing, and immediately attacked a deputy. The deputy fought off the canine but sustained a bite to his arm and hands. The deputy received a major laceration to the arm and finger that led to further medical care and stitches.

The La Grange Police Department investigated the incident, and based on a previous report of this same animal biting another human being, which also caused serious injury, applied for formal charges. The police department had also previously received in excess of 20 reports of this same animal being within the city limits in violation of city ordinance. The dog's owner, Stacee Cassidy, currently faces numerous city ordinance violations in reference to the dog as well.

In accordance with state law, under the dangerous dog statute, and for the safety of the community, Chief Aaron Johnson impounded the dog and placed it in the city animal shelter.

Captain Jason Powell sought formal charges through the Lewis County Prosecutor Chelsea Fellinger. On September 19, 2025, Mrs. Fellinger filed one count alleging Mr. Humphrey had committed the class E felony of Keeping a Dangerous Dog.

The Honorable Corey Moon, Associate Judge, then issued a warrant for Mr. Humphrey.

Mr. Humphrey was arrested by the La Grange Police Department on September 19th. He was booked and released on his own recognizance.

The La Grange Police Department was assisted by the Lewis County Sheriff's Office. "All subjects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law."

Contact Information:

Chief Aaron Johnson

La Grange Police Department

Phone: 573-655-4611