A Parsons man is facing multiple charges after breaking into a home, threatening a woman with a saw and stealing items ranging from tools to Christmas tree ornaments.
Jody Don Malcolm, 54, 1810 Morton, is charged in Labette County District Court with aggravated burglary, aggravated assault, criminal threat, all felonies, theft and battery, both misdemeanors.
The charges relate to incidents on Dec. 9, when Parsons police responded to Forest Park on a report of an altercation in progress. Officers encountered a woman who identified a male suspect walking toward the south end of the park as her attacker.
Officers found him and identified him as Malcolm. During the investigation, officers learned that the woman had recently reported her bicycle stolen. She spotted the bike at the park and attempted to reclaim her property, but Malcolm confronted her.
According to the woman, an argument ensued, during which Malcolm pushed her to the ground. He then retrieved a saw from his bag and swung it at her, causing her to fall over a park bench. Malcolm allegedly made death threats to her before he was interrupted by the sound of approaching sirens.
Police detained Malcolm at the park and searched his belongings. Among his possessions were tools marked with the PRC logo, belonging to the Parsons Recreation Commission. Officers followed up with the PRC and uncovered surveillance showing Malcolm breaking into a storage unit and stealing the tools.
The investigation continued and the Parsons Villas also reported a recent burglary. Security footage revealed Malcolm stealing clothing, ornaments from a Christmas tree and other items from a common area.
Malcolm’s arrest has resolved several cases tied to his brief but wide-ranging crime spree.
Malcolm made a first appearance in the Labette County District Court on Dec. 11 and was given a $50,000 bond. He remains in the Labette County Jail.
Parsons Police Chief Robert Spinks praised his officers’ efforts in connecting the cases and apprehending Malcolm.
“It’s not every day you catch a real-life Grinch, but stealing ornaments from a Christmas tree certainly fits the bill,” said Spinks in a prepared statement. “Kudos to our officers for their thorough investigative work that not only resolved this incident but also closed multiple cases. Our team goes beyond the immediate call to ensure justice is served. Fortunately, no one was seriously injured, and the only losses were material. Not all cases end this way.”
This continues to be an ongoing investigation, and citizens are encouraged to “see it, hear it, report it.” All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court. If anyone has any further information on this incident or any other criminal activity, please contact the Parsons Police Department at 421-7060, call the Tip Line at 4217057 or email [email protected].
