September 6th, 2026 Local News
Crawford Co., Mo. (KFMO) - Two Bourbon residents are facing multiple felony charges following an investigation by the South Central Missouri Computer Crimes Task Force, with additional charges filed after investigators examined electronic devices seized during a search warrant.
Investigators executed a search warrant August 30, 2026, at a residence in the 2000 block of Highway C near Bourbon. The warrant was obtained as part of an investigation into allegations involving child sexual abuse material and other criminal activity.
During the search, investigators located evidence that resulted in the arrests of 45-year-old Daniel Reed Whatley and 46-year-old Jessica Lyn Whatley, both of Bourbon, on alleged controlled-substance offenses. Both were subsequently incarcerated in the Crawford County Jail.
On August 31, the Crawford County Prosecuting Attorney's Office filed felony charges against Daniel Whatley for delivery of a controlled substance, unlawful possession of a firearm, and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.
Jessica Whatley was charged with delivery of a controlled substance and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.
Warrants were issued for both defendants with capias bonds, meaning no bond was set.
As the investigation continued, electronic devices seized during the search were forensically examined by investigators with the South Central Missouri Computer Crimes Task Force. Authorities say evidence developed during that examination resulted in additional probable cause statements being submitted to the Crawford County Prosecuting Attorney's Office.
On September 1, 10 felony counts of possession of child pornography were filed against each defendant. No bond was issued for either defendant.
As of the issuance of the law enforcement release, Daniel and Jessica Whatley remained incarcerated in the Crawford County Jail.
The South Central Missouri Computer Crimes Task Force is the primary investigating agency. The Crawford County Sheriff's Office, Franklin County Sheriff's Office, and Lake Area Narcotics Enforcement Group assisted with the investigation.
Authorities say the investigation remains active. Anyone with information related to the case is encouraged to contact the South Central Missouri Computer Crimes Task Force at 573-426-3860.