State takes over Lamar grain dealer

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) -- The state Agriculture Department takes over a grain dealer in Lamar.

The department says auditors found Lamar Grain and Feed could not pay the bills for grain it already bought.

The agency says about a dozen farmers might be affected and wants those who are owed money to contact it. It estimates the company owes more than $100,000.

The attorney general's office sought a court order in Barton County to let the Agriculture Department take possession of the Lamar grain company and its assets to cover outstanding bills.

The company's grain dealer license expired at the end of May. Owner Ron Ellis declined to comment.