OSAGE COUNTY — A wanted fugitive from Cole County was taken into custody last week after a coordinated effort between multiple law enforcement agencies led to his arrest in Linn.

According to Osage County Sheriff Michael Bonham, deputies with his office, along with officers from the Jefferson City Police Department and the Mustang Drug Task Force, arrested Augustus A. Armstead, Jr. on Oct. 21 at a residence on 3rd Street in Linn.

According to a press release issued by the Osage County Sheriff’s Office, Armstead was wanted in Cole County on felony rape warrants and for a probation violation. The Osage County Sheriff’s Office received a tip earlier that day from Jefferson City police indicating that Armstead might be hiding in the Linn area. Deputies began surveillance on an apartment on 3rd Street, where they soon confirmed his presence.

After coordinating with the assisting agencies, officers moved in and safely took Armstead into custody without incident.

Sheriff Bonham praised the collaboration among the departments, describing the arrest as an example of effective teamwork between jurisdictions. “This is how it is supposed to work,” Bonham said. “One Team, One Fight.”

Armstead was later turned over to Cole County authorities.

Court records from Cole County Circuit Court show on Oct. 17, Armstead was charged with statutory rape in the second degree, statutory sodomy in the second degree, and endangering the welfare of a child. The charges stem from an alleged incident in Jefferson City on Oct. 16, 2025. According to a probable cause statement filed by Jefferson City Police, investigators allege that Armstead engaged in sexual activity with a 14-year-old victim he met through social media.

Detectives stated in court documents that digital evidence was recovered during the investigation, including a recording of the alleged encounter. The statement also indicates that when contacted by police, Armstead denied the accusations and refused to meet with investigators. A no-bond warrant was issued for his arrest, with the court citing community safety and flight risk as factors.

Armstead made his initial court appearance by video on Oct. 22, when an arraignment was held in Cole County Circuit Court. He entered a plea of not guilty. During the same hearing, a bond review was conducted. The court denied a motion to modify bond, citing Armstead’s potential danger to the community.

A follow-up hearing on Oct. 24 confirmed that Armstead had been approved for a public defender and was awaiting formal assignment. The court again reviewed bond and denied modification after hearing a victim impact statement. The case was continued to Oct. 31 at 10:30 a.m. for another bond review hearing.

The Osage County Sheriff’s Office expressed appreciation to the Jefferson City Police Department and the Mustang Drug Task Force for their assistance. “This arrest underscores the importance of strong partnerships between local law enforcement agencies,” Bonham said. “Their combined efforts continue to make our communities safer.”