Willow Man Charged with Rape, Six Other Felonies

Anthony David Barton, 25, of Willow Springs, has been charged with one count of rape in the first degree, four counts of first degree sexual abuse, one count of first degree burglary, and one count of resisting arrest for a felony following events that occurred from August 1 through 3 in Willow Springs. 

According to a probable cause statement filed by Sergeant Michael Huffman of the WSPD, a female victim contacted the department on August 1 and described a sexual assault she suffered in Barton’s residence in which she was locked in a bedroom, forced into sexual contact, and “smacked” in the mouth when she resisted. 

The victim’s children were locked in another bedroom in the house at the time of the assault where they screamed and cried to be let out. 

In a separate probable cause statement, Sgt. Huffman describes the reason for the burglary and resisting arrest charges, which are filed under the same case as the sexual assault. On August 3, Sgt. Huffman received a report of an attempted burglary on East Seventh St. The caller reported Barton was on the property and was kicking and beating down the door to gain entry. 

Upon officer arrival, Barton was advised he was being detained, but he turned and ran. 

Sergeant Neil Foster of the Missouri State Highway Patrol located Barton a short time later in an alley between Harris and Walnut Streets. Barton was placed under arrest. 

Sgt. Huffman’s statements indicate he believes Barton to be a danger to the victim because the WSPD has had “several reports of domestic incidents” between the two.  In the statement for the burglary charge, Sgt. Huffman says Barton is a danger to the community because the police “have responded to the residence numerous times for Barton being on the property and causing a disturbance or assault.” 

As of press time, Barton remains in custody on a bond of $200,000. He entered a plea of “not guilty” at his initial appearance before the Honorable R. David Ray on August 5. Barton appeared for a bond hearing on August 11 and is expected to apply for a public defender.