Oldham Case Closed: City of Sedalia Stands with the Community

In an effort to provide clarity to the community and preserve public trust, the City of Sedalia has released a statement surrounding the resignation of former Councilman Tom Oldham, who stepped down from his Ward 1 seat earlier this year following allegations of sexual misconduct.

On April 23, 2025, the Sedalia Police Department was notified of a potential public safety concern. Police Chief David Woolery contacted Pettis County Sheriff Brad Anders, who confirmed that a formal complaint had been filed with the Sheriff’s Office involving allegations against Oldham.

That same day, City staff met with Mayor Andrew Dawson to determine the City’s immediate response. Later that evening, Chief Woolery again spoke with the Sheriff’s Department and was assured that Pettis County investigators had sufficient information to proceed and that contacting Oldham would not interfere with their case. With that confirmation, Mayor Dawson personally requested his resignation from the Sedalia City Council. Oldham agreed and submitted his resignation that night.

Mayor Dawson notified the Sheriff’s Department that two City-issued electronic devices were in Mr. Oldham’s possession. In order to preserve the appropriate chain of command, the devices were later returned to City Hall and subsequently collected by the Sheriff’s Department that same day as part of the county’s inquiry.

In the weeks that followed, Pettis County investigators conducted forensic reviews, obtained search warrants, and interviewed Oldham. A probable cause statement was submitted by the Sheriff’s Office, but on July 31 the Pettis County Prosecutor’s Office declined to file charges, citing insufficient evidence. The case was closed in late August when Oldham’s seized phone was returned.

It’s important to note that the investigation was conducted by Pettis County law enforcement, and all charging decisions were made by the Pettis County Prosecutor’s Office. The City of Sedalia fully cooperated throughout the process.

Mayor Dawson acknowledged the seriousness of the allegations and the impact they had on the community.

“When serious allegations are raised against an elected official, it shakes the confidence of an entire community,” Dawson said. “Like many of our residents, I felt shock, betrayal, and disappointment as these facts came forward. After confirming with law enforcement that my actions would not interfere with their investigation, I personally went to Mr. Oldham and asked for his resignation. There could be no hesitation; the families of Sedalia and the people we serve have to come first. As a father of five, I could not and would not ignore the seriousness of the situation. I thought about my own children and about the families who place their trust in us, and I knew the only right decision was to act quickly and decisively.”

Although Pettis County prosecutors ultimately declined to file charges, citing insufficient evidence, that does not erase the disappointment we all feel in the conduct that came to light. The exchange of inappropriate messages, confirmed in investigative reports, has left many frustrated and unsettled, and families are right to feel that way. The behavior was not acceptable. My focus now is on standing with our residents, supporting families, and working together to ensure Sedalia remains a community built on trust, respect, and integrity.”

Following Oldham’s resignation, Cheryl Ames was appointed through an open process to fill the Ward 1 seat, ensuring residents of the district continued to have representation on the Council.