Roberts elected as new Jasper County prosecuting attorney

Mike Roberts defeated incumbent Theresa Kenney in the Republican primary for Jasper County prosecuting attorney.

Roberts received 8,933 votes, or 59.5%, while Kenney received 6,083 votes, or 40.5%, according to unofficial results.

Roberts, a former Joplin police officer who previously served as county prosecutor, campaigned on improving communication with law enforcement, preparing cases more quickly and increasing transparency. He also advocated tougher treatment of repeat offenders and aggressive prosecution of crimes against children.

Kenney had served as prosecutor since 2017.