Crime N ews
A Parsons resident and a pastor of Lost Souls Ministry of Oswego, Kansas, was recently arrested on multiple charges following an investigation, which began late last year.
Joshua John Price, 37, was arrested by Joplin City Police, on Tuesday, Jan. 6, on charges of first-degree kidnapping, armed criminal action, first-degree sexual abuse, and sexual exploitation of a minor.
On Nov. 3, 2025, a 16-year-old girl reported an assault that allegedly occurred earlier in the day to police. According to reports, she was walking near 7th and Moffet Avenue when she was approached by a man driving a black SUV, who offered her a ride.
See PASTOR, Page 7.
JOSHUA JOHN PRICE
When she declined, allegedly, the driver brandished a handgun and ordered the victim into the car.
According to Joplin Police, the victim was then taken to Schiffendecker Park. The suspect took photos of the victim, ordered her into the backseat, and attempted to get the victim to remove her pants while threatening her with a handgun. He also allegedly placed his phone on the center console to record as he escalated the assault.
The victim reported convincing the suspect that she needed medical assistance, which led to the suspect taking the victim to 7th and Conner Avenue before fleeing.
According to investigators, the victim identified her attacker as Joshua Price through multiple social media sites, including Facebook and Snapchat.
Joplin Police also verified his identity through Price’s prior reports of vehicle theft in Joplin, and vehicle records showing he owned a black Kia Sorento consistent with the vehicle used during the attack.
Through subpoenaed phone records, AT&T cell tower and timing advance data, Joplin Police determined that his location was consistent with the location and times reported by the victim.
An arrest warrant was granted by the Jasper County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, and he was arrested at 1715 Rangeline Road, in Joplin last Tuesday, with assistance from the Webb City Police Department. He was booked into the Joplin City Jail and is being held on a $100,000 cash bond.
Price has been suspended from his pastoral duties pending the outcome of this case. Lost Souls Ministry also operates in Joplin. No court date has been set yet, as of press time.
