Attorney General Hanaway Secures Conviction On 16 Counts In Ralls County Hostage And Assault Case

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Today, Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway announced that a St. Charles County jury convicted Michael Clarkson on all counts for a violent assault and hostage incident that took place in Ralls County.

“Violent offenders who terrorize and endanger innocent victims will face the full weight of Missouri law,” said General Hanaway. “This conviction reflects the courage of the survivor, the efforts of law enforcement to apprehend the offender, and the dedication of our trial team. We will continue to protect Missouri communities and pursue justice for victims of violent crime.”

The litany of charges included two counts of attempted rape in the first degree, attempted sodomy in the first degree, attempted rape in the second degree, attempted domestic assault in the first degree, kidnapping in the first degree, burglary in the first degree, harassment in the first degree, stalking in the second degree, five counts of violation of an order of protection, armed criminal action, and unlawful use of a weapon.

Despite an order of protection issued against Clarkson, on April 20, 2025, he drove a four‑wheeler to the victim’s home. When the victim fled inside and locked the door, Clarkson smashed the door, took her phone after she had called 911, and held her at knifepoint. Clarkson cut off the victim’s clothing, bound her with her own pants, and forced her in and out of the home while threatening to kill her.

Clarkson then barricaded the victim in an upstairs bedroom for nearly seven hours, throwing furniture down the stairs to block law enforcement entry. During the standoff, Clarkson attempted to rape and sodomize the victim at knifepoint. Missouri State Highway Patrol SWAT ultimately made entry and apprehended Clarkson.

After finding Clarkson guilty on all counts, the jury recommended four life sentences plus an additional 63 years. Sentencing is scheduled for December 1 at 10:00 a.m. before Judge Christopher McDonough.

The case was tried by Assistant Attorneys General Corie Geary and George Lankford, with support from victim advocate Kara Lindhorst and investigators Carl Schwartze, Rob Jauer, and Tiffany Lindewirth. The investigation was conducted by the Ralls County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

The Attorney General’s Office remains committed to ensuring that violent offenders are held accountable and that survivors receive justice. Individuals dedicated to public service and interested in joining the office’s prosecution or investigative teams are encouraged to explore current opportunities at ago.mo.gov/about-us/job-opportunities.

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