Cassidy Rainwater is a 33-year-old mother who went missing on July 25th, 2021. Photos of her sent into the FBI prompted arrests of two men, and the images depicted Rainwater in distress. Cassidy is still a missing person, and the lack of information causes waves of rumors fueled by fearful locals.
Content warning! This content contains verbal, graphic descriptions. This work documents public speculation, but in no way does it accuse anyone of anything.
Please be sensitive in the comments, especially if talking about the rumors. Rainwater and her family deserve dignity.
DCSO = Dallas County Sheriff's Office, LE = Law Enforcement, MHP = Missouri Highway Patrol, FB = Facebook Upstairs Info = Factual info from reputable source, Downstairs Info = Second-hand info non-reputable sources.
Timeline Of Events
July 15th, 2021, Missouri Highway Patrol for Cassidy Rainwater has had her missing since today. They also reported she was missing from Buffalo, Mo. The news does not report this information, and MHP warns that their information might not be accurate.
July 24th, 2021
One day before, Cassidy is missing. The weather this day is in the '90s with a low of '70s and fair. Sunrise is at 6:12 a.m., and sunset is 8:28 p.m. This day Timothy Norton admits that James Phelps wanted help restraining Cassidy Rainwater, and Norton follows through.
July 25th, 2021
On this day, Cassiday Rainwater goes missing. An anonymous family member makes the observation. Rainwater is not reported missing until August 25th. The weather this day is fair except for the late afternoon thunderstorm with light rains. James Phelps told LE that he saw Cassidy Rainwater leave his home in the middle of the night, and Cassidy allegedly left by a vehicle at the end of the driveway.
August 25th or 26th, 2021 (Some News Sources Conflicting Dates I believe 26th is the correct one. I like to include both for data)
Rainwater was reported missing by an anonymous family member, and the Dallas County Sheriff's Office took the report. The news presses acquired this information from court documents.
September 1st, 2021
DCSO makes a FB post asking for the public's help to find Rainwater. "Cassidy has been missing since July 25th. She has associations in Dallas, Laclede, and Greene Counties" Sgt. RS of DCSO goes to interview James Phelps. This first interview could have taken place on August 25th, 26th, or September 1st. Most sources say it occurred on September 1st. Some news articles are written vaguely about the date. Some are decisive that it was September 1st. The interview with James Phelps occurs at his home address of 386 Moon valley road, Dallas County, MO. There is no information on what prompted this first interview. During this first interview, James Phelps tells the investigator that Rainwater lived there. Phelps claimed that she had been gone one month. Phelps was helping her "get back on her feet." Then Phelps showed the investigator the loft space where Rainwater stayed. The investigator said it was "stripped" of any personal items belonging to Rainwater. Sg.t R.S., according to one source, was shown around the property. Phelps mentions Rainwater talked about going back to Colorado. "The loft was somewhat stripped and I did not find any personal belongings of (Rainwater) at this time," Sgt. RS in the affidavit. https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/crime/article254802962.html#storylink=cpy The interview concludes, and it was determined that Phelps was the last person to have seen Rainwater.
September 16th, 2021
The FBI Office of Kansas City receives an anonymous tip from a person. This person sends photos showing a partially nude woman in a cage. They were also "advising there was a photo of a missing person named CR being held in a cage."
https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/crime/article254802962.html
DCSO said the "The FBI received information as to the possible whereabouts of Cassidy Rainwater." Special agent TD of Kansas City forwards the information to DCSO's Sgt. RS recognized Rainwater in the photo. That same day DCSO went back to James Phelp's home. There they took custody of his phone, and inside it, they found seven photographs of Rainwater. Phelps was arrested on the scene. Sgt. RS also said that Rainwater, at the time the phone was being seized, had not been located.
Phelp's property is searched. "We recovered many items for further investigation." - DCSO FB Page October 4th post.
They do not release what these items are to protect the investigation. DCSO states they intend to protect the investigation process and increase the possibility for successful prosecution. According to DCSO, the scene was kept in custody for 24 hours a day for seven days straight, and a deputy was there all the time. DCSO reports that they worked with Greene County Sheriff A. and their GCSO Crime Scene Unit and workforce. The FBI for their assistance. They announce that this is a difficult time for Cassidy's family and friends and that their thoughts and prayers were with and they ask to respect their privacy.
September 18th, 2021
DCSO released a statement re-capping the past events along with Phelps's current situation.
"Phelps is currently being held without bond in the Dallas County jail for Class B Felony kidnapping. DCSO and the Dallas County Prosecutor continue to investigate with the assistance of the FBI and the Greene County Crime Scene Unit. Additional charges are expected in the coming days. Due to the extreme nature of the crime and the continuation of the investigation, additional details cannot be released at this time. There is no immediate danger to the public." -DCSO FB.
There is a second interview with James Phelps, and DCSO makes a case connection to another person. Timothy Norton.
September 19th, 2021
Timothy L. Norton, 56 years old, registered to the same address as James Phelps. Norton has an interview with LE, and he gives them not accurate information. Norton said that he was an over-the-road trucker and lived in his truck even when not actively working.
September 20th, 2021
Norton has a second interview, and this time he confesses. Norton knew Cassidy Rainwater and was aware she was being held at James Phelps's home inside a cage. Norton admits that on July 24th, he answered a call from Phelps. Phelps asks him to come to his house and restrain Rainwater. "Norton said after arriving at Phelps' house, he "did physically confine" Rainwater by "holding her down for a substantial period of time." - https://www.news-leader.com/story/news/2021/10/01/two-men-arrested-disappearance-dallas-county-woman-cassidy-rainwater/5949426001/
September 21st, 2021
Norton is arrested and was held at the same time as Phelps in the Dallas County jail without bond. BT. Norton's attorney states that Norton denies all of the allegations, collecting and reviewing the evidence. The charges against both men are one count of first-degree kidnapping, facilitating a felony, inflicting injury, and terrorizing a class B felony.
September 22nd, 2021
Multiple agencies were assisting the DCSO at the scene on 386 Moon Valley road. This included the FBI and the County Crime scene unit. They had been combing the location for a few days, according to Kfvs13 news.
September 23rd, 2021
The scene is released at 386 Moon Valley Drive. Then returned to the original owners that Phelps rented from. Previously, this property had been under 24-hour custody with a deputy there at all times.
September 28th, 2021
Norton appears in court virtually without a lawyer. He is moved to Greene County jail.
October 1st, 2021
Online the rumors and speculations began to mount higher. DNA was sent in for testing that came from the Phelps property. The Sheriff S.R. said that it could take up to 30-90 days before results. Sheriff S.R. also says they are trying to protect the integrity of the case. They do not want jurors tainted with information getting out before the case. SR said they are trying to protect the integrity of the case to make a good and trial. They did not want to taint jurors with facts getting out before the case.
October 4th, 2021
386 Moon Valley home is burnt to the ground. The fire late on a Monday night was around 9–10 p.m. Multiple fire crews from different stations responded to the scene. There were two fire hotspots. During the fire, a Dallas County deputy found a tripwire. Once the tripwire was found, the fire was left to burn on its own while they waited on the bomb squad. Initially, they thought it was only one device, but it turned out there were two. The Springfield bomb squad was sent to investigate around 1:30 a.m. They did detonate an explosive device that was near the fire. The device was a mortar tube with a balloon cover and tripwire. Although SCSO Sheriff S.R. stated that he did not think the property had been booby-trapped at the time. According to Springfield News, the Sheriff added that the property was searched prior to the fire and released back to the owner.
October 5th, 2021
Norton and Phelps have a court hearing scheduled via Polycom for a criminal hearing. The Preliminary hearing is set for November 5th, 9:30 a.m. Both men have public defenders assigned to them. Preliminary hearings are for proving probable cause. This also decides if the case goes to trial. J. B. Prosecutor asked for 45 days until the preliminary due to the number of witnesses needed.
"We have quite a number of witnesses across several agencies and family members we're going to need to notify," B. said. "I want to make sure we get everyone here the first time." -news-leader.com https://www.news-leader.com/story/news/2021/10/08/facts-cassidy-rainwater-kidnapping-disappearance-southwest-missouri-james-phelps-timothy-norton/6035194001/
The defense objected, bringing up that the supreme court only allows 30 days. JB agreed to say he would file for a motion if he needed more time. The only reference was by a news source that used the words "Dark Web Photo" posts. The reference is about the anonymous tip sent to the FBI of Kansas City. They also address the rampant rumors in the case.
"I feel like they're kind of taking the story and running with it and maybe making it hyped up to more than what it really is. But I also feel like if law enforcement and others will give us information, they wouldn't have to resort to that kind of…filling in," says a local resident. SW -CBS17 News
Investigators return to the scene of the fire to analyze it.
October 7th, 2021
DCSO's Sherrif SR posts on Facebook a rant against the mounting rumors. Sherrif's SR's response polarizes people's opinions. Some find his rant understandable, and some find it unprofessional. The insults about "great value cheese puffs" were oddly specific, and some found that funny. The response seemed to have made rumors worse because now seeds of distrust were sown. People began to wonder about authoritative coverups.
"Addressing Fake News: There is a lot of misinformation and rumors regarding the Cassidy Rainwater case being circulated across social media and various news platforms. While I understand the impatience and curiosity of the people, I'm going to give you a piece of advice. It is not a good idea to listen to "a crime reporter/blogger "or Tic Tok videos that is sitting in their apartment or their mommy and daddy's basement eating Great Value cheese puffs and drinking box wine with grand intentions of being a social media superstar. If you are hanging on every word is this type of crap, believing it to be fact, you are living in a fantasy world. This isn't a tv series or movie where we go to commercial break and have lab results in 15 minutes. Searching a crime scene for 7 days 24 hours a day takes that long, 168 hours. 99.999999% of what has been posted to social media is CRAP. Law Enforcement Officers must play within the rules of the American Criminal Justice system. While the system has its faults, it's still the best system in the world. We are judged by a jury of our peers with a Judge presiding over the case, a Prosecutor who presents the case, and a Defense attorney who defends their client. This is where ALL facts of the case come out, not Tic Tok, Facebook, or any other social media outlet. NO, you are not entitled to a play-by-play of an ongoing investigation. If you want to be in the know, we are hiring along with every other law enforcement agency in the country. We are working in the real world and this is an active ongoing investigation. When all members of the prosecution team believe that it is appropriate to release information, we will keep you informed. Until that time, I can tell you we have all parties involved with Cassidy Rainwater's case in jail and we expect additional charges to be filed in the coming days. If you are not a resident and are planning a trip into our Beautiful County to sightsee, remember a few things. While the citizens of Dallas County are friendly, neighborly, caring, and kind people, we do not like those who show up to trespass, litter, vandalize, harass, or destroy property. If this is your intention, you are not welcome here and we will prosecute you for this. Sheriff R." https://www.facebook.com/DallasCountySheriff
October 9th, 2021
Krcgtv reports that one current registered sex offender uses the address 386 Moon Valley. The registered man is not Phelps nor Norton. This record is an older record from 2015. There is an updated record available elsewhere and shows a different address. 386 Moon Valley also had a person registered here who had an illegal charge of 'pursuing, taking or killing wildlife.' Krcgtv reports that Monday, the smaller shack near the cabin seemed unharmed Tuesday. Friday, though, it had collapsed in on itself. https://krcgtv.com/news/local/sex-offenders-tied-to-property-in-kidnapping-charges-records-show
October 10th, 2021
People began to dark tourist the Moon Valley Road home. At least three carloads of people drove up here on October 10th to see the scene, and people were wondering why it was not secured.
October 14th, 2021
The state fire marshal releases their findings of the fire on Phelp's property. They find it was a criminal act, alleging felony, second-degree arson. Two incendiary devices were found there and made of mortar tubes, coil, and balloons with tripwires.
October 29th, 2021
New motions were filed for James Phelps by his assigned attorney. They asked for a change of Judge. Norton's public defender filed a motion for a judge to set a bond for possible release, but that is not placed on the docket yet. Dallas County Judge L.H. is currently hearing the case for both Phelps and Norton.
November 1st, 2021
James Phelps requested a change of Judge and was granted it. The previous Judge was Lisa Henderson, and Phelps is now assigned, JP. The hearing for November 5th was canceled with the new Judge's request.
Timothy Norton still has a hearing for November 5th with Judge Lisa Henderson. Norton's defender filed a motion for a possible bond, but it is still not on the docket.
November 2rd, 2021
Timothy Norton's hearing for a bond release will be set for November 23rd, 2021. James Phelps's next court will be on November 19th, 2021. Dallas County Prosecuting Attorney J.B. requested a continuance on the preliminary hearing. Neither men nor their representatives were at court for this request.
November 5th, 2021 9:30 a.m.
The preliminary hearing is set for November 5th, 9:30 a.m. Canceled for both
November 19th
Phelps next court appearance.
November 23rd, 2021
Norton's appearance will be about the bond release.
Cassidy Rainwater is still a missing person. Sheriff Scott Rice will not confirm if Rainwater has been found.
Cassidy Rainwater
Cassidy Rainwater, a female of unknown race, missing since July 25th, 2021 (Not reported until August 25th, 2021. Cassidy was born May 9th, 1988, according to Missouri Highway Patrol. Cassidy was 33 years old at the time of her vanishing and reported missing from Buffalo, Mo. The investigating agency is officially Dallas County Sherrif's Office in Buffalo, MO. DCSO said Cassidy had associations in Dallas, Laclede, and Green counties in southwest Missouri. A neighbor that lives near 386 Moon Valley road described Cassidy Rainwater as a friendly person.
"I've known Cassidy for, you know, in intermittently, she would stop by she would talk to us when we were outside working. I don't think Cassidy would have ever run off without keeping contact with her family," she said. -kfvs12.com
Cassidy attended Harrisonville High School In Cass County in 2003 as a freshman. Cassidy might have a Facebook that has some photos of her and a child. Facebook says she lived in Boulder, Colorado, and was from Harrisonville, MO. Cassidy has multiple children. One son by father B. (father B. did not want his full name out there). B and Cassidy met in Harrisonville, where she went to high school and lived. They did not marry, but they were friends. Cassidy's son is 16 and lives with another family outside of the area. According to B., it was rare that Cassidy would disappear, and they talked several times a year. However, the last time they talked was May 2019. B. was told of her disappearance by the adoptive parents of his biological son. B. said the last time they talked, he thought Cassidy might have been homeless and was trying to support another child. B. offered to help, but she did not accept.
Cassidy's mother was also a missing woman. Tracy Denise Wahwassuck (Maiden name Rainwater) went missing in 2007. Boyfriend Leonard Couch (Now Deceased) told LE that he thought she had gone out searching for arrowheads. Wahwassuck's last known address, according to public records, indicates her home was in Lebanon, Missouri. Wahwassuck's bones were found scattered in a field near Lebanon in 2008. Very little has happened with her case since then. It is reported as suspicious, but no cause of death was released, no arrests, and no person of interest. Laclede County Cornorner S.M. said it is still an open case. SM does not think there is a connection between the cases.
https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/110541478/tracey-denise-wahwassuck
This death caused political controversy in the county. It is unclear how or what this means exactly. Wahwassuck's case has been subject to rumors fueled by the lack of information.
Moon Valley Road
386 Moon Valley Road, Lebanon, Missouri 65536. Sometimes listed as Windyville, Missouri, or Buffalo, Missouri. Trulia says the home does have a basement. It is a single-family home with one bath. 800 sqft of floor space built-in 1993-96. It sits on about 3 acres of land. The area is heavily wooded. Nearby there is a Missouri conservation access to the Niangua River. It includes a boat ramp and parking lot. https://mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/places/moon-valley-access
Visually it had at least three structures on the property. The main house and a small shed/shacks. Dog houses, three vans, personal debris like barrels are also left. There were cage-like objects that could be seen, but they could be dog cages or stock tank holders. The was a large hanging chain with an industrial hook at once, but that could have been used for trucks or deer/pig processing. The history of this property is complicated. Some news sources say that James Phelps owned the property, and some will say he rented the property. James Phelps listed the property as his home in 2011. Norton listed it as his address in 1992 and 1993.
However, other court documents say Norton lived in Wright City in 2020. In 2015 a registered sex offender listed his address as 386 Moon Valley, but he has a newer record with a more recent address listed elsewhere. To find the records yourself, check the SCSO offender's list and then look up the Missouri State Highway Patrol Sex offender Registry with any proper names you find on the DCSO offender's list. Ozarksfirst News spoke with a man who said he built the cabin. This man also claimed he owned the property. However, records prove that he did not. Ozarksfirst news spoke with the property owner indicated by records. This person was aware of the cabin on the property was not sure if it was legally his. There is also a man that claimed he owned the property, and this was listed in 1997. The online records show that the property was owned by a man from southwest Missouri since 2009.
Area Location Background
Screenshot from Google maps. I do not own this image.
Photo from google maps. I do not own it.
The location is hard to pin down because of the vast expanse and several names. This area can be lumped together as Lebanon, Dallas County, Windyville, Bennet Springs, Buffalo, and Moon Valley. They are, however, different locations on the map. Springfield, Mo, is also close by and sometimes lumped in. That is about one hour from 386 Moon Valley.
Lebanon, Missouri, is a city in Laclede County. The population was 14,474 in the 2010 census. According to neighborhoodscout.com, Lebanon has a crime rate of 52 per one thousand residents. This is roughly 20 mins from the 386 Moon Valley address.
"Lebanon has one of the highest crime rates in America compared to all communities of all sizes - from the smallest towns to the very largest cities. One's chance of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime here is one in 19. Within Missouri, more than 91% of the communities have a lower crime rate than Lebanon. "
Violent crime, property crime, and vehicle theft are high by stats. Word of mouth is that the area is poverty-stricken. According to datausa.io Lebanon, has a 20.4% poverty status out of the 14.3k people. Word of mouth reputation is that Lebanon is has a drug problem. Meth, opioids, and oxy. According to vertavahealth.com, Lebanon has experienced trends in drugs or excessive drinking. 16% of adults report binge drinking. 2016 had 108.6 opioid prescriptions. Plenty more examples to link, but there were too many:
https://www.ky3.com/2021/04/27/police-arrest-2-in-large-drug-bust-in-lebanon-mo/
https://www.laclederecord.com/stories/officers-seize-meth-fentanyl-make-arrests,15122
https://www.ozarksfirst.com/local-news/local-news-local-news/missouri-state-highway-patrol-recovers-79-oxycodone-pills-and-over-12000-during-a-traffic-stop/
https://www.ky3.com/content/news/Major-drug-bust-in-Laclede-Co-likely-tied-to-Mexican-drug-cartels-502418091.html
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lebanon,_Missouri
Lebanon does have a history of violence against women. Including sexual slavery. This case content warning: sexual abuse / caged women
https://www.stltoday.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/a-missouri-towns-doubts-about-a-sex-torture-case/article_03074291-7988-59e7-9fd1-4d81b5088e56.html
https://www.thewrap.com/alleged-sex-slave-appeared-hustler-photoshoots-20766/
https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdmo/pr/human-trafficking-rescue-project-1
https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdmo/pr/human-trafficking-rescue-project-2
Windyville, Mo is an unincorporated community in Dallas County, Mo. The population was 51, and it is 10 minutes from 386 Moon Valley Road. This area is supposedly haunted, and the area is too small to report accurate crime statistics.
http://www.ghostsofamerica.com/6/Missouri_Windyville_ghost_sightings0.html
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windyville,_Missouri
Bennet Springs Park, Mo is a recreational park in the Dallas and Laclede counties. The population in 2010 was 130, and the area is too small to report accurate crime statistics. It is about 3-5 minutes from 386 Moon Valley Road, and the Niangua River flows nearby.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bennett_Spring_State_Park
Buffalo, Mo is a town in Dallas County. The population is 3,084 during 2010, and Buffalo is about 28 minutes from 386 Moon Valley.
"Relative to Missouri, Buffalo has a crime rate that is higher than 77% of the state's cities and towns of all sizes. ... One's chance of becoming a victim of a violent crime here is one in 1546, which is a violent crime rate of 1 per one thousand inhabitants." -neighborhoodscout.com
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buffalo,_Missouri
Timothy L. Norton
Self-described as an "Over-the-road trucker" Norton also said he lived in his truck full time. A female neighbor described Norton as into the seedy side of things.
James D. Phelps
A female neighbor described Phelps as into the seedy side of things. Via social media, people tell their tales of encounters with Phelps, and most conclude he was creepy. Online there is very little information about Phelps, except for this link showing that he was ordained.
https://getordained.org/find-a-minister/16377 with a religious affiliation "Universal Life Church." Phelps about me section says, "just getting started."
Cannibal Speculation
CONTENT WARNING! This section is all speculation and NOT facts. Please be advised that some topics from here on out can be graphic.
"It makes it hard to do your job, really, with all the false rumors going around and all this speculation," Sherrif RS said. "When you try to talk to someone, that's all they want to talk about, 'Well, I heard this and I heard that.' We can't go off of hearsay. "We've chased a lot of rabbits down rabbit holes that ended up nowhere because of that. … You've spent a lot of man-hours and time chasing a rumor that somebody just made up or thought they heard." -DCSO S. R.
https://amp.kansascity.com/news/local/crime/article254984327.html
One of the primary sources for the cannibalism rumors returns to an online blogger. "The Crime Scene," written by KB who focuses on crime in and around southwest Missouri. An article was posted on September 30th, 2021, about Cassidy Rainwater. It was the first post since September 17th, 2015. KB has a natural talent for writing, and her blog has several accolades. KB is clear and upfront that some of her information is based on rumors. The blogger has several sources that all wish to remain anonymous. The first source was someone allegedly close to the investigations. The source of the anonymous person seems to have come from Reddit. On Facebook, KB put out a post looking for tips, and in the conversation, they post some messages sent via Reddit. These conversations can be found under the #cassidyrainwater tag via Facebook.
The first source said the FBI used software that used pixels and matched skintones on the anonymous photo. This system made a possible match to Rainwater. Then they forwarded that info to the Dallas County Sheriff. (News sources say the photo was turned in by a person who told the FBI they thought the person pictured was a woman named CR.) This person also said that during the first interview with James Phelps, he was "acting weird." The source said they walked to the back and saw meathooks in the bathroom window. This is allegedly what prompted law enforcement to get a search warrant. The following morning they kicked in the door and found Phelps eating a sandwich made with human remains. Then Phelps laughed and told investigators he served human ribs to an unsuspecting neighbor a few days prior. The search allegedly found vacuum-sealed body parts with detailed labels in a freezer. They speculated that Norton may have helped transport victims across state lines. (According to LE and news sources using court documents.
James Phelps had an initial interview with DCSO's Sgt. RS at Phelp's home on August 25th or September 1st, 2021. Investigators saw his property and the loft space inside the cabin. Sgt R.S. was forwarded information from the FBI on September 16th, 2021. That is what prompted the arrest of James Phelps that same day.) Another anonymous source stated that LE could be interested in a second property. The property location was near Preston, MO. This property was supposed to belong to a Phelps family member. (No secondary properties or people were named in the news.) Another anonymous source stated that LE found human remains in some trailer tanks on the property. Another source said that at least one set of partial remains had been recovered so far at Phelp's property, and there could be 13 other sets of remains. (DCSO Sherrif did deny that 18 sets of bodies were found publicly in the news) The blog reported on the speculation from Reddit about the vans. They said a van was recovered on the Phelps property connected to the infamous Springfield 3 case. They also mention Echo M. Lloyde's case. (All three visible vans on Phelp's property are still there even after the fire and scene release from DCSO.)
Screenshot from "The Crime Scene" Blog by KB I do not own the written works in this image. Showing for context/fair use. Go to the blog to read the full article.
Ifunny "Meme" Outside of Reddit, Facebook, and KB's blog, another outside source mentions cannibals. This is a post made on iFunny about the situation, and the user name was Addict_the_3rd. They made the post 27 days ago from 10/29/21 to put it around October 3rd, 2021. This dates the post after "The Crime Scene"'s initial blog post."
https://ifunny.co/user/Addict_the_3rd and https://ifunny.co/picture/wreg-com-men-accused-of-keeping-missing-woman-locked-in-eVTvxDIy8
Sometimes the link will not work. You can get to the link by googling "James D. Phelps Meathooks" it is the top link.
Tiktok
Tiktok has a hand in spreading cannibal speculation, starting with a few crimetok posts that went viral with misinformation. Several people have stated that if it were not for these videos, they would not have known about the case.
Documenting Rumors
This section is for documenting rumors and hearsay. The purpose is to gather publicly available information for the sake of data. Most of the rumors come from Reddit and Facebook. Sometimes comment sections under content. I apologize if I missed anything. There was a lot. This section does not accuse anyone of anything, and this section has a content warning.
The Body In Tree: This rumor has a few versions and is tied with cannibal speculation. People either saw themselves or heard from others about a body or bodies found hanging from the trees. Sometimes the body is skinned or prepared like a deer. Sometimes, the body is Rainwater, and sometimes it is multiple random victims. Some point to the sizeable hanging chain with an industrial pulling hook in the photos to prove these rumors.
Potluck Rumors: This rumor is based on the origins of Phelps eating a sandwich of human meats. The rumor on human meats in the freezers or van on the property and other similar variants. People claim they have themselves or heard of people who were sold or given meat from Phelps/Norton. This meat, of course, is allegedly human. There are other variants of people going to BBQs and potlucks where Phelps/Norton attended. (In other accounts, people described the pair as creepy and how they avoided them at all costs) The Darkweb: This rumor has a few versions and also has ties to cannibal speculation. People say the photo turned into FBI was from the dark web. Sometimes, it is said from cannibal rings, cannibal cults,s or human meat butcher forums/groups.
Spinoff theory: The cannibal cult, ring, butchers are local and live in the area. Sometimes, a local Meaphysics store is a part of it or even the LE. (One single news source refers to the original photo as a dark web photo. CBS17 News.) The Metaphysics School: The rumor seems to have started on Reddit. Some point out suspicious book titles as proof of their involvement in a cannibal cult. Some are just pointing out their proxy to Moon Vally Rd. Serial Killer: This rumor mixes a little with theory. The rumors, however, speculate the duo could have been doing their work for 16-30+ years. The idea that they are serial killers connected to old cases seems to be because of the three old vans on their property. There was talk that one of the vans was supposed to be recovered for forensics or in another version of one of the freezers. (No murder charges have been filed. The vans and freezers were left even after property release by SCSO. SCSO Sherrif addressed the rumor about 18 sets of remains being false.) https://www.kansascity.com/article254984327.html
Rainwater Confirmed Deceased By Family: The family's rumor on social media about Rainwater's death. The idea is supported by circulated screenshots mentioning her passing. These are supposed to be from family, but the screenshots do not show names nor date/time stamps. These screenshots do beg for privacy about the situation. (Rainwater is still listed as a Missing Person, LE said when they seized Phelps phone, she had not been located. They are testing some DNA samples but have not stated results) More Than Two: Rumor mixed with a bit of theory. The lack of information on LE's part brought them to light with scrutiny. Not knowing if the scene was protected, who, or what was found has caused people to say they were involved. The FBI involvement did not help but added fuel to the distrust. Besides, police people have suggested a particular sex offender was involved, other serial killers who were prolific, gangs related to drugs, and more. The criminal fire solidified these claims in the minds of a few online. Fired LE: A slight variant in rumor said online that two police officers were fired for leaking information. Some feel that this proves the rumors. (The lead investigators are Dallas County Sherrif Office. They have had FBI assistance and some Police, but they were not leads but leading help) FBI. Takeover: A few claims/misheard online users thought the FBI took the case over. (However, the investigating agency is listed as DCSO, and the FBI has been thanked publicly for their assistance, but they are not the leads.)
Stalking: Allegedly, public people have been stalking or harassing anyone involved in the case—even distant family members. A rumor story is that a Phelps distant family member was run off the road and their child injured. The incident allegedly sparked DCSO's anger. (Unable to find evidence for the story, but Sherrif rants about the rumors on DCSO's Facebook.)
More Than One Crimecene: This rumor mixed with a bit of theory starts on Facebook, Reddit, and "The Crime Scene" blog. Some online say they say SCSO is investigating nearby properties allegedly owned by Phelps/Norton. Some say they heard they would search secondary properties. Bennet Springs, Various locations near Moon Valley, Preston Mo, The Vans and Freezers, Metaphysics school, and more have been rumored.
Theories
This section is for compiling ideas, connections, brainstorms about the case. Nothing in this section is a fact. The collective ideas come from different public places—Reddit, Facebook, and similar. The content warning still applies.
Truck Driver: Norton's self-described job title opens up the possibility of a crime taking place across state lines. The FBI involvement seems to make people agree that this theory could have some backing. Serial Killers: There are very few facts yet to back this idea. However, there are some tiny indicators that this case could be more significant than just Rainwater. People are hopeful that their loved one's case could be solved.
Mother Connection: A variant of serial killers or more than two is the theory Rainwater's case somehow connects to her mother's death. The idea is targeted harassment from Phelps/Norton and targets for gangs in general or somehow connected with drugs/human trafficking rings. People look at Rainwater's mother's boyfriend as a suspect, but he is deceased now.
Rainwater Deceased: This theory is based on the fact they are charging Phelps/Norton with kidnapping, terrorizing, and intent to injure. The LE has clearly stated they hope to add more charges later, and they are waiting on DNA results. So, the theory is that they intend to prove Rainwater's death even if her body is not located.
Rainwater Alive/Trafficking: This theory is based on the fact that Rainwater has not been located. They are leaving room for hope that she is alive. The theory is that perhaps she was human trafficked. Norton being a trucker, their home being close to the river and highway gives some backing to the idea. The highway and area are near known trafficking routes. Some spinoff theories on this idea, building either on trafficking or hopeful Rainwater escaped and will not come out of hiding.
https://www.417mag.com/issues/january-2018/human-trafficking-on-i-44/
More Than Two: Theory mixed with rumors. There are many variants of this thought. A third party besides Phelps and Norton was involved with either a larger option ratio or Rainwater. Some say gangs, cults, clubs, or just one other man. Some distrusting LE has suggested them. Backing the theory is the possible third man who used Moon Valley Rd. as an address in 2015. The secretive behavior of the authorities involved/their alleged lack of interest in the case. Lastly, the burning of the Phelps property was ruled as criminal arson.
Possible Connected Cases
This case is on the verge of knowing if more cases could be connected. When more information is released, more connections can be made. The only connection I felt I could add now is this one encounter. Please, keep in mind that connections are possibilities but not facts.
Youtuber SC encountered a partially nude woman near moon valley road. The incident occurs on July 14th, 2021. SC explains that river floats and camping happen all the time near his property. Drunkenness is a reasonably common occurrence. This encounter starts with SC hearing panicked women screaming for help repeatedly. SC records investigate and attempt to get information from her without putting himself in harm's way. In the video, the woman is wearing little clothing and is rinsing off or doing something in the river. When SC attempts to find out what is wrong, the woman moves out of his view but continues to yell for help—only stopping to say that her husband had hit her and hurt her. Without cell service, SC must trek to the top of the hill to call the police. Once at the top of the hill, the situation worsens. SC notices an all-black pickup truck that was parked on his hard-to-find backwood private property. When they saw him, they left. There was another van there as well. The woman vanishes, and they suspect somehow she was found and picked up. Then SC and his group encounter a man from the river, and they have a long awkward conversation about the woman. The man implies he was trying to help her, and he becomes defensive, refusing to give his last name.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-LBVFqL-0Bg and there was an update video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r1bo0WFfJG0
Polarized Community
The arrest and announcement of Phelps/Norton rocked the community. Some come to defend him and say innocent until proven guilty, and others come to condemn him and mount even more claims.
Authorities Tight-Lipped
In contrast to the speculation from the community, authorities are tight-lipped DCSO will not return calls to news-press. They will not confirm information, and they have made a scathing post about online speculation. Fire departments, the bomb squad, and even the 911 dispatcher will not release any statements.
Conclusion
Cassidy Rainwater's case is still unsolved. James Phelps and Timothy Phelps await preliminary hearings. If you have any information, please contact DCSO. https://dcsomo.com/
Upstairs Info
https://krcgtv.com/news/local/investigation-continues-into-missing-lebanon-woman-as-rumors-swirl-on-social-media
https://www.koamnewsnow.com/home-of-alleged-kidnapper-james-phelps-burns-down/
https://www.foxnews.com/us/two-men-charged-in-missouri-authorities-missing-woman-in-cage
https://fox4kc.com/news/missouri-news/missing-woman-cassidy-rainwaters-mother-also-victim-of-mysterious-disappearance/
https://fox4kc.com/news/missouri-men-charged-with-keeping-missing-woman-locked-in-cage-court-records-say/
https://fox4kc.com/news/new-video-investigation-continues-after-missouri-men-charged-with-keeping-missing-woman-in-cage/
https://www.koamnewsnow.com/sheriff-addresses-fake-news-surrounding-cassidy-rainwater-case/
https://krcgtv.com/news/local/sex-offenders-tied-to-property-in-kidnapping-charges-records-show
https://khqa.com/newsletter-daily/report-fire-at-kidnapping-suspects-home-was-arson
https://krcgtv.com/news/local/incendiary-devices-in-dallas-county-home-of-suspect-in-cassidy-rainwater-case
https://www.scribd.com/document/532224856/F000976-100621-386-MOON-VALLEY-ROAD-21-10198-10-04-2021-Preliminary-Incident-Report#fullscreen&from_embed
https://www.yourtango.com/news/where-is-cassidy-rainwater-missouri-woman-missing
https://www.ky3.com/2021/09/24/timeline-events-disappearance-cassidy-rainwater-dallas-county-mo-investigation/
https://www.ky3.com/2021/10/06/latest-what-we-know-about-disappearance-cassidy-rainwater-dallas-county-mo-investigation/
https://www.fourstateshomepage.com/news/joplin-news-first/two-men-tied-to-missing-woman-fbi-tipster-images-showed-the-female-caged-men-facing-charges-due-in-court-again-this-week/
https://www.cbs17.com/news/national-news/warrant-7-photos-found-of-caged-partially-nude-missing-woman-suspects-home-mysteriously-burns-to-ground/
https://www.ozarksfirst.com/local-news/local-news-local-news/dallas-county-sheriffs-office-confirms-house-of-man-charged-in-kidnapping-is-a-total-loss-in-fire/
https://www.ky3.com/2021/10/01/dallas-county-sheriff-says-hes-waiting-dna-evidence-case-cassidy-rainwaters-disappearance/?fbclid=IwAR3TFpFvCoQqWaBGC2vw-0ULIjKZgeYZ5aRMfZCQcBouTWttNpVCxqTN6t4
https://www.myozarksonline.com/phelps-arraignment-today-in-rainwater-kidnapping/
https://www.ozarksfirst.com/local-news/local-news-local-news/drone-video-what-remains-of-the-dallas-county-property-where-cassidy-rainwater-was-kept-in-a-cage/
https://www.ozarksfirst.com/local-news/local-news-local-news/drone-video-what-remains-of-the-dallas-county-property-where-cassidy-rainwater-was-kept-in-a-cage/
https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/crime/article254802962.html
https://fox2now.com/news/missouri/what-does-human-trafficking-look-like-in-rural-missouri/
https://www.kctv5.com/news/investigations/biological-father-of-one-of-cassidy-rainwater-s-sons-prepares-for-the-worst/article_13e55540-2d42-11ec-9c31-e3c9d9c57ede.html
https://amp.kansascity.com/news/local/crime/article254984327.html
https://www.mshp.dps.missouri.gov/CJ51/Search?page=1&county&personType=A
https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/crime/article254834662.html?fbclid=IwAR2j4hRwIdrT7TeNOt8WnWc1kpk4z_p-WCIQGyqJVSgDgX8i3k2P3aP4O-E
https://www.417mag.com/issues/january-2018/human-trafficking-on-i-44/
https://fox4kc.com/news/missouri-news/new-motions-hearings-filed-for-missouri-man-charged-in-cassidy-rainwater-case/
https://www.news-leader.com/story/news/2021/10/08/facts-cassidy-rainwater-kidnapping-disappearance-southwest-missouri-james-phelps-timothy-norton/6035194001/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Cw-zckn0QM&t=6s
http://dcsomo.com/offenders-list/
https://www.kfvs12.com/2021/10/06/what-we-know-about-dallas-co-investigation-missing-woman/?outputType=apps
https://www.kfvs12.com/2021/09/22/dallas-county-deputies-arrest-second-man-connected-disappearance-cassidy-rainwater/
https://www.news-leader.com/story/news/2021/10/15/kidnapping-suspect-in-cassidy-rainwater-case-house-fire-arson-officials-say-dallas-county/8473249002/
https://fox4kc.com/news/missouri-news/suspect-in-cassidy-rainwater-kidnapping-case-assigned-new-judge/
https://www.ky3.com/2021/11/01/new-judge-assigned-case-james-phelps-accused-kidnapping-cassidy-rainwater/
https://www.news-leader.com/story/news/crime/2021/11/02/cassidy-rainwater-kidnapping-case-james-phelps-timothy-norton-hearings-missouri-courts/6249190001/
Facebook Upstairs
https://www.facebook.com/notes/kspr-news/unsolved-death-investigation-sparks-political-controversy-in-laclede-county/144794661310/
https://www.facebook.com/13312631635/posts/james-phelps-and-timothy-norton-were-charged-with-kidnapping-after-an-anonymous-/10159715748031636/
https://www.facebook.com/DallasCountySheriff/posts/1923514417811415
https://fb.watch/8-T6yDoTrA/
Downstairs Information (Please do not send hate to content creators) (Not all content is shown. Not leaveing anyone out on purpose!)
The Cassidy Rainwater Case Discussion Group FB
The Crime Scene Blog
http://crimesceneinvestigations.blogspot.com/2021/10/who-owns-386-moon-valley-road.html?m=1
Reddit Discussions (More than this listed. Just listing the bigger threads/groups)
https://www.reddit.com/r/serialkillers/comments/py2gr8/cassidy_rainwater_possible_victim_of_a_serial/
https://www.reddit.com/r/springfieldMO/comments/ptvtfc/dallas_county_deputies_arrest_second_man/hdzfap6/
https://www.reddit.com/r/cassidyrainwater/
broadcastify.com recording because this type of chatter can be easily faked or misinterpreted I always include radio chatter as downstairs info.
https://garchives1.broadcastify.com/31630/20211004/202110042144-90276-31630.mp3
Heather Safroblablabla's Yt Theories About Human Trafficking
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kr9SfZ-tgLg
Another Day In The Car
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qfch7Sp_VPs
True Tragedies
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HEQTe0oDio4
True Crime Garage
https://omny.fm/shows/true-crime-garage/spookyville-part-2-531
Serial Killing: A Podcast
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=COCcJs9JPDs
Dark Enigmas
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H7D982WWds0
A B Report on The Springfield Three Van On Phelps Property?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fKiAUUvdaBU
Thank you for considering supporting me and this case by sharing, liking, and commenting.
We are praying for the intercession of Santa Muerte on behalf of Cassidy Rainwater.
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