Police search for fugitive

Man out on bond following Monday tampering charge in Stoddard County

A man wanted in Butler County in connection with an overnight home invasion is the same man arrested in Stoddard County earlier in the week.

Rodney Green, 40, of Poplar Bluff is wanted by Butler County authorities following two home invasions, two shootings, the theft of an automobile, and an assault.

According to the Butler County Sheriff's Department, at 2:30 a.m. today, a report was received of a home invasion at 4265 County Road 569 in Butler County.

While en route to the scene, officers learned that two subjects were shot with a rifle.

Upon arrival, officers were told that the man who had shot them was Rodney Green. Green allegedly forcibly stole a red Dodge Dakota from the scene and fled.

At 6:06 a.m., police received a report of another home invasion at 288 County Road 6263 in Butler County.

A male subject had been assaulted by a man believed to be Green, and a 1997 gold Ford F-150 pickup was stolen. The license plate number is 3HE-658.

Green is considered to be armed and dangerous with what is believed to be a SKS rifle.

He was last seen wearing a brown jacket, grey vest and blue jeans.

Green is a white male approximately 5'6" tall and 165 pounds. He has red hair and blue eyes.

Authorities warn residents not to approach Green if spotted, but rather to contact law enforcement immediately.

The Butler County Sheriff's Department may be reached at 573-785-8444. The Stoddard County Sheriff's Department may be reached at 573-568-4654.

The shooting victims were airlifted from the scene, but no word has been given on their condition, nor have they been identified.

Green was arrested in the early morning hours of Monday, Jan. 28 in Stoddard County after being caught stealing parts from vehicles in the Dexter area. He was arraigned Thursday and bonded out of Stoddard County Jail.

A new warrant was issued in Stoddard County Friday morning for failure to abide by judge's orders because he allegedly committed a new crime in Butler County. The new warrant will not allow for bond.

Given the gravity of the situation, area schools including Dexter Public Schools, secured all school entrances. Supt. Dr. Thomas Sharp was in contact with the Highway patrol and was kept abreast of any changes in the situation.

"I appreciate the professionalism of all those working together," said Sharp this morning, "to insure the safety of our school."