Taney County Prosecuting Attorney

07/24/2026

Today, Miguel Melendez Torres was found guilty of two counts of murder in the second degree, two counts of armed criminal action, and two counts of attempted robbery in the first degree, following a jury trial.

The Taney County jury found that Torres approached the victims, Rocky McMahan and Krystle Buhl, in the back of the Famous Dave’s parking lot on May 29, 2021, with the purpose of robbing them. During this interaction, Torres shot and killed both of the victims. Rocky was transported to the hospital where he died several hours later, while Krystle was pronounced deceased at the scene.

“I want to extend my sincerest condolences to the loved ones of both Rocky and Krystle. They have been through a lot since 2021, including the mistrial in January. Unfortunately, nothing can bring Rocky and Krystle back, but I hope this conviction provides some sense of justice and comfort as they continue to heal from these losses,” said Taney County Prosecutor, Brad Hughes.

The case was investigated by the Branson Police Department with assistance from the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

The case was tried by Taney County Prosecuting Attorney Brad Hughes with the assistance of Assistant Attorney General Paige Wheeler.

Formal sentencing is set for October 6, 2026, at 1pm at the Taney County Courthouse in Forsyth.

06/02/2026

Earlier today, a Taney County jury convicted Chad Michael Adams of the class D felony of failing to register as a s*x offender.

In April of 2023, Deputy Inmon of the Taney County Sheriff’s Office was made aware that Chad Adams failed to register as a s*x offender in March of 2023. The defendant was a Tier III offender and was to register quarterly with the Taney County Sheriff’s Office as required by Missouri statutes. When Deputy Inmon responded to the defendant’s last reported address, the defendant could not be located. Charges were reviewed and filed in 2023. The case had been set on two prior jury trial dockets but was not reached by the Court due to the conducting of other trials. The defendant is in custody and a formal sentencing hearing is scheduled for August 19, 2026, at 9:00 a.m.

The case was tried before the jury by Assistant Prosecuting Attorney S.K. Yianitsas and Prosecuting Attorney Brad Hughes.

04/14/2026

We are happy to announce that our new and improved website is live! Head to taneycountyprosecutor.com for victim and witness information, contact information for local law enforcement agencies, and other information about our office.

The Taney County Prosecutor’s Office is dedicated to serving our community by upholding the law and pursuing justice. With a commitment to public safety and well-being, our experienced team works diligently to ensure a fair and just legal system for all citizens.

04/08/2026

On April 7, 2026, a Taney County jury found Ronald Lee Williams, Jr., guilty of burglary in the second degree from an incident that occurred on August 16, 2024.

The Hollister Police Department was alerted to possible trespassers at a residence in Hollister. Officer Sanderson responded to the residence, but initially did not locate anyone. Later in the shift, he observed a male prying on the door to the residence and going inside. Officer Sanderson made contact with the male, identified as Ronald Lee Williams, Jr., and asked what he was doing there. At that time, Williams claimed to have permission to be at the residence and stated he was staying there. Officer Sanderson made contact with the property owner who denied giving Williams permission to be at or in the residence.

A formal sentencing date has not been scheduled at this time.

03/04/2026

If you have any information regarding Kaden’s whereabouts, please contact the Branson Police Department or call 911.

02/24/2026

Our hearts are heavy with the tragic loss of Deputies Ramirez and Hislope. Our thoughts are with their friends and family, as well as the other officers who were harmed during this senseless conduct.

02/24/2026

Our hearts are with the friends, family, and loved ones of Deputy Gabriel Ramirez of the Christian County Sheriff’s Office who was killed in the line of duty today. Our area law enforcement officers put their lives on the line every day to protect the citizens of our communities and we are extremely grateful for each and every one of them.

01/26/2026

Taney County offices, including the Prosecutor’s Office, will be closed on Monday, January 26, due to inclement weather. If you are subpoenaed for a hearing, it will be rescheduled to another date. We hope everyone stays safe and warm!

01/18/2026

On Thursday, January 15, jurors were unable to reach a unanimous verdict in the case against Miguel Melendez Torres, who was charged in connection with the shooting at Famous Dave’s in Branson on May 29, 2021. As a result, Judge Merrell dismissed the jury and declared a mistrial.

This does not mean that the case is over. The charges are still pending, the defendant remains in custody, and the Taney County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office will continue to pursue justice for the victims and their families.

At this time, a new trial date has not been set.