Accused Neosho school counselor bonds out of jail after turning self in
Update
NEOSHO, Mo. — A Neosho school counselor has bonded out of jail after turning himself into authorities.
Jacob Oakes, 40, turned himself into the Newton County Sheriff’s Office Thursday afternoon. He posted a $5,000 surety bond and left the jail.
Wednesday, Newton County Prosecutor William Lynch filed one count of second degree statutory rape against Oakes.
A teen told investigators, Oakes started sexually abusing her in 2021 — and continued until last month. The girl reported the alleged abuse always happened at Oakes’s home.
The Neosho superintendent said Oakes was placed on leave March 22 and they are working with their attorney on how to move forward.
Original
Allegations of child sex crimes against Neosho school counselor
NEOSHO, Mo. — A Neosho school counselor, placed on leave on March 22, is now charged with a child sex crime.
Wednesday, Newton County Prosecutor William Lynch filed a charge of statutory rape against Jacob Oakes, 40.
Oakes is listed on the district’s website as an elementary school counselor.
His wife also works for the district.
Court documents say the accuser was 14 years old when the alleged abuse began in 2021.
The teen told authorities it continued as recently as last month and would always happen at Oakes’ home.
Superintendent Dr. Jim Cummins says, “Mr. Oakes was placed on leave when we were alerted of the investigation. We are working with our attorney as we move forward.”
Oakes has not been arrested, but a warrant for his arrest has been issued.
