Bates County News

Thursday, January 29, 2026

Charges Filed Against Rich Hill Teacher Accused of Inappropriate Contact with a Student

This information was researched and written by Mid-America Live

According to documents on file with the Bates County Circuit Court, former Rich Hill Schools employee Paula Rayanne McCoy of Rockville, MO was taken into custody and released on bond following an accusation that McCoy had inappropriate sexual contact with a student on or about August 29th, 2025.

McCoy, who is represented by attorney J Lindsey Ikram of Kansas City, faces charges of Sexual Contact W/ Student {Felony E RSMo: 566.086} and initial arraignment is scheduled for February 4, 2026 at 9 am in the Bates County Circuit Court.

The charge listed carries a penalty of up to 4 years in prison; fines of up to $10,000; the defendant may be required to register as a sex offender; and any teaching licenses may be revoked according to Missouri Statutes.



Eileen Rigler, age 89 of Butler

Eileen Rigler, 89 of Butler, Missouri passed away Tuesday, July 21, 2026 at Medicalodges Butler. Cremation, with no public services schedul...