Joplin dentist booked into jail for fatal hit and run charges

A Joplin dentist was booked into the Cherokee County Jail Tuesday afternoon.

54-year-old John Henry Joseph is charged with failing to stop at an accident which resulted in death and for contributing to child misconduct by encouraging a felony.

His bond was set at $25,000. He then reportedly posted bail and was released a few hours later.

It all stems from a fatal hit and run in August of 2023 that claimed the life of 60-year-old Gary LaTurner, of Galena.

Joseph’s son Rocco was reportedly behind the wheel when his truck hit LaTurner. The two later returned to the scene, but did not report it to police.

On Monday, Joseph’s attorney requested that the case be dismissed.

Joseph will be back in court on April 7.

He also faces drug trafficking and illegal possession of a firearm charges in Newton County.