Change of venue ordered in child endangerment case

A Scott City dentist charged with two felony counts of child endangerment will have his case heard in New Madrid County.

Gary L. Riddle appeared in Scott County circuit court Dec. 22, at which time his case was moved to New Madrid County circuit court.

Scott County Prosecuting Attorney Paul Boyd and defense attorney Frank C. Bertrand III were unavailable for comment Thursday as to why the change of venue was ordered.

A grand jury in Scott County indicted Riddle in Nov. 16 on two felony charges of endangering the welfare of a child. An arrest warrant was served on Riddle Nov. 21 as part of a roundup by the Scott County Sheriff's Office. Riddle was released on bond the same day, Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter said.

The charges stem from an incident May 19 when Riddle allegedly encouraged two children under 17 years of age to jump off the roof of his residence and into a swimming pool.

The Scott City Police Department investigated the incident.

Each count of child endangerment is subject to a sentence of up to seven years in prison, up to one year in county jail and a fine of up to $5,000.