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	Rodgerson Pleads Not Guilty By Vincent Brennan Daily Express August 3, 2009 http://www.kirksvilledailyexpress.com/news/x1307073396/Rodgerson-pleads-not-guilty KIRKSVILLE — Councilman Aaron Rodgerson pleaded not guilty to misdemeanor charges of failure to report abuse of neglect of a child under 18 years of age as a mandated reporter, and unlawfully engaging in the practice of law Monday at the Adair County Courthouse. Approximately 25 supporters were on hand to back the Southside Baptist Pastor and Nathaniel and Elisabeth Burns, who were also scheduled to appear in court. The Burns' were charged with endangering the welfare of a child and pleaded not guilty at their arraignment July 6. All of the charges stem from a May 6 incident when authorities received a call explaining the 10-month-old Burns child weighed 12 pounds, according to court documents. Rodgerson, who was represented by Attorney Andrew Farwell, was arraigned Monday, and authorities continue to monitor the Burns child. Prosecuting Attorney Mark Williams told Judge Russell Steele that a discussion took place last week at a family support meeting to settle the details surrounding the child, but no specific dates were discussed for the future of the Burns case. "They are just going to continue to observe," Rodgerson said. Before the court date, Nathaniel Burns said the child was doing "OK," and wouldn't comment on the case further. After the arraignment, Rodgerson commended those who attended the hearing to support both parties. "Those people stood up to let the court know, to let the state know, the prosecution know that 'We're very concerned about this individual being arrested and arraigned and that we support him,'" Rodgerson said. The next scheduled court date for Rodgerson will take place Aug. 31. Related Stories
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