Missouri Man Pleads Guilty to Fort Leonard Wood Officers Assault

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — A shocking incident at Fort Leonard Wood has come to a court room conclusion as James W. Dickens, 32, of Houston, Mo., pleaded guilty today to assaulting and threatening federal law enforcement officers. The defendant’s actions, which included wielding an axe during a high-speed chase, have left the local community reeling.

Dickens drove a stolen vehicle to the north gate of Fort Leonard Wood at 1 a.m. on June 11, 2023, according to today’s plea agreement. His behavior was erratic as he threatened personnel and revealed an axe in his vehicle’s passenger seat before fleeing. A pursuit ensued, culminating in a crash into the north gate drop arm barrier.

The defendant emerged from his vehicle, verbally abusing officers, and vowed to kill one who tased him. Dickens’ defiance continued during his apprehension, as he headbutted officers and spit at them. The scene grew more chaotic when paramedics arrived to assess his health; Dickens refused cooperation, adding insult to injury.

Under federal statutes, Dickens is facing up to 18 years in prison without parole for his crimes. Assistant U.S. Attorney Casey Clark and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Cesar Vargas are prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the U.S. Army, Fort Leonard Wood, Military Police Investigations.

A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office determines the appropriate punishment for Dickens’ heinous actions.

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