ELSBERRY MAN ACCUSED OF CONFRONTING OFFICER AT HIS HOME FOLLOWING SON’S ARREST

ELSBERRY, Mo. — Thomas Lee Helfer is facing a misdemeanor trespassing charge following allegations that he went to an Elsberry police officer’s private residence Monday, October 12, three days after the officer arrested his adult son.

According to a report describing a probable-cause statement filed in Lincoln County Circuit Court, Helfer’s son had been arrested October 9 on traffic-related allegations and his motorcycle was towed.

The report says Helfer arrived at the officer’s home around noon Monday and knocked forcefully at the front door. The officer reportedly recognized Helfer on a security camera.

The officer’s wife encountered Helfer near the open garage and asked him to leave, directing police business to the Elsberry Police Department or City Hall. Helfer allegedly remained despite the request.

The officer then came outside and repeatedly directed Helfer to leave. Helfer reportedly returned to his vehicle but initially remained in the driveway before departing.

The officer’s wife reportedly said she was afraid during the encounter.

Helfer was arrested later Monday and taken for a medical examination before being transported to the Lincoln County Jail.

A warrant was reportedly issued Tuesday, October 13, charging Helfer with first-degree trespass involving a law enforcement officer or relative, a Class A misdemeanor. Bond was reportedly set at $5,000 cash only, with GPS monitoring and no-contact restrictions among the release conditions.

The case is listed as Lincoln County Circuit Court Case No. 26L6-CR00654. These details are based on a published account of the allegations; RiverNewsLive has not independently inspected the underlying court filing.

The charge is an allegation. Helfer is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.