LACLEDE COUNTY, Mo. — The second attempt at a trial for the former Camdenton Dairy Queen owner accused of sexually abusing a teen employee has been moved to Laclede County and will take place in August.

On Monday, Judge Donald Barnes ordered Dennis Lee Purdy's case transferred to Laclede County.

Purdy, who was charged in Camden County originally in June of 2013, is alleged to have committed the crimes of Forcible Sodomy, Statutory Sodomy, and Sexual Abuse upon a victim under the age of 17 years. The first trial, held in Camden County before Judge Kenneth Hayden, resulted in a mistrial after Purdy pleaded guilty but then made two inconsistent sworn statements to the court and to the Probation and Parole Office.

The new trial will be heard by Judge Donald Barnes after Judge Hayden recused himself. Recently, Judge Barnes oversaw a lengthy motion hearing after the state indicated it would introduce propensity evidence at trial. The specific evidence to be offered will be testimony by other victims, allegedly describing the same offenses as Purdy was charged with in 2013. These offenses were allegedly committed upon them before their 17th birthdays. Judge Barnes took these issues under advisement while awaiting full briefs from the attorneys. 

The court docket sheet does not indicate any motions for a change of venue from either party. The entry for April 24, 2017, states, “Per order of Judge Donald Barnes, transferred to county Laclede….” In a separate interview, Camden County Prosecutor confirmed the change was agreed upon by all parties, without any specific motion being entered into the court.

The new trial is set for August 8-11.

Meanwhile, Purdy remains free on a cash bond of $5,000 which will be transferred by check to Laclede with the docket sheets by certified U.S. Mail.

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