Rolla Police - Chief Chat

This past week, the Rolla Police Department handled 625 calls for service. Of these calls there were: 24 arrests, 11 alarm calls, 11 traffic accidents, 18 traffic complaints, 6 check the well being requests, 131 traffic stops, 18 disturbance calls (including domestics), 11 suspicious nature complaints, 11 assists of other agency requests, 14 field interviews, 6 escorts, 4 leave without pay complaints, 5 intoxicated persons, 25 animal control calls, 3 fights and 59 security checks. This call total is down 94 calls from last week. I little better, but still a busy week!

The United States Attorney’s Office announced this week that William P. Haynes, Jr., was sentenced to 18 months in prison for possession of child pornography. Haynes, 60, of Rolla, MO, pled guilty in September 2011 and appeared this week for sentencing before United States District Judge Audrey G. Fleissig. This case was investigated by the Rolla Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Great job by all.

The Rolla Police Department Criminal Investigations Unit is comprised of Det. Sgt. Ken Nakanishi, Det. Hank Harper, Det. Robert Jones and Investigator Derrick Dillon. The CIU investigate many types of crimes and are on call 24/7, which means they are called out very often. I checked a small portion of their current case load and discovered that these are the cases that they are currently working. 1 armed robbery case, 7 sex crimes cases, 3 death cases, 8 stealing cases, 7 fraud investigations, 1 drug case,(most drug cases are handled through our Drug Enforcement Task Force), 3 burglary cases, 2 stolen vehicle cases, 3 receiving stolen property investigations and they are also conducting three employee applicant background investigations. In addition they are called out to assist the Patrol Division with crime scene processing and follow-up investigations. As you can see, this unit is only comprised of 4 investigators and this assignment comes with a tremendous responsibility. I am very proud of this Division and the quality of the investigations put forth. Keep up the good work guys!

New years eve I assisted the Patrol Divisions from 9:00 pm until 2:00 am and was very pleased with the way things went over all as it was relatively a slow night. Almost immediately I responded to a fight call at one of the local bars. While several of us were on that call we received a report of a disturbance and a possible suicidal person call at another location. I left the bar fight to respond to the suicidal person call in assistance of another officer that was responding to the same call alone. I arrived on that scene and it involved a mentally impaired person who become irate for reasons unknown. I transported that person to the PCRMC emergency room for a mental eval. As soon as I left the hospital we had a report of someone turning over grave stones in the Rolla Cemetery. I responded with other officers and upon arrival patrolled the area on foot, but did not locate anyone or identify any stones damaged. While we were there we had to have officers respond to another bar fight. We then received a call of ten people fighting outside of a 3rd bar (can’t we just all get along?). I then responded to another call of two females fighting in the street. Upon arrival, all parties were inside, and everything had calmed down. We then responded to a domestic violence call and soon after, we responded to another fight call at different bar, but everyone was gone when we arrived. The Patrol officers made several traffic stops that night in an effort to identify intoxicated drivers but traffic was unusually light. I would like to commend the bar owners for their added staff and bouncers, in their efforts to keep things under control. So overall is was a very quiet night for New Years eve in that we did not arrest any drunk drivers or have any traffic accidents. Great job Rolla!

I would like to take this opportunity to welcome our newest member to the Rolla Police Department family. Crystal Allen began her training this week in Central Communications as a telecommunicator. Crystal will replace Melissa Maddox who left to pursue other challenges. Crystal will undergo a very intense 12 – 16 week training program where she will learn all the traits inherent of a solid telecommunicator. An interested side note on Crystal is that she is the niece of a former RPD telecommunicator Julie Mayfield who is also the wife of Sgt. Tim Mayfield. (See, I told you this was the Rolla PD family!) Crystal is married to her husband Chad and they have two sons, Evan and Owen. They attend First Assembly of God in Rolla and serve in the nursery. During down time the Allens like to spend as much time outside as possible. They enjoy riding four wheelers and dirt bikes and exploring the forest property near their home. Welcome aboard Crystal and good luck to Melissa Maddox in her future undertakings!

In closing, I would like to offer our thoughts and prayers to the family of retired MSHP Sgt. Terry W. Parker who passed on New Year’s Day after a lengthy illness. Terry was a devoted family man, a devout Christian, a courageous patrolman and a true friend to many. We will miss him!

Have a great week!


Chief Mark Kearse

Police Chief Chat

Drug watch: The Rolla Street Crimes Unit and officers from the evening shift arrested (2) individuals last night for possessing chemicals with the intent to manufacture a controlled substance. The suspects were observed making numerous trips in and out of pharmacies and were purchasing items commonly used to manufacture methamphetamine then hiding the items throughout the vehicle. Also located during the search was methamphetamine paraphernalia. One of the suspects had active warrants from the State of Oklahoma for the same type of charges.

This past week the Rolla Police Department handled 769 calls for service. Of these calls there were: 28 arrests, 4 alarm calls, 20 accident reports, 29 traffic complaints, 28 check the well being requests, 151 traffic stops, 17 disturbance calls (including domestics), 15 suspicious nature complaints, 19 assists of other agency requests, 7 field interviews, 13 escorts, 4 leave without pay complaints, 29 animal control calls, 3 mental health calls, 2 littering complaints, 7 destruction of property reports, 1 juvenile complaint and 2 telephone harassment calls. This call total is up 123 calls from last week, yet another busy week!

I hope you and your family had a wonderful Thanksgiving, the opportunity to spend time with family and friends, share a good meal and give thanks for the many blessings we are afforded here in the United States and in good ole Rolla, Missouri. Myself and members of the Rolla Police Department also hope that any visiting family members or friends had a safe journey back home and arrived without mishap. Thanksgiving Day and the following Friday are paid holidays for City of Rolla employees and most will be able to enjoy a 4-day weekend. Here at the Rolla Police Department our Patrol and Communication Divisions are not as fortunate. For these officers and telecommunicators work goes on, 24 hrs. a day, 7 days a week. Yes, they will get the paid holiday, but usually sometime down the road when the schedule allows. So keep these folks in mind while you are home with your families as they work and miss being with their families to keep you safe. We would like to thank the individuals, church groups, civic organizations and businesses who graciously stop by the Police Department and provide lunches, dinners, snacks and desserts to those employees working the holidays.

I am proud to announce that the City of Rolla has reposed special trust and confidence in the knowledge, courage, integrity, and professional excellence of Pto. Steven Gray. In view of these qualities and his demonstrated leadership potential and dedicated service to the Rolla Police Department, he is therefore promoted from the rank of Patrol Officer to Senior Patrol Officer. Promotion and date of rank are effective November 13, 2011. Steve was born and raised in the State of Illinois before moving to Rolla in 2003. Steve received training and served as a paramedic with the St. James Ambulance, Houston Ambulance and Dixon Ambulance before accepting a position as a paramedic with the Phelps County Regional Medical Center in Rolla. Steve then became interested in law enforcement and attended the Missouri Sheriff’s Academy in Waynesville where he obtained his POST certification graduating in 2009. In October of 2009 Steve accepted a patrol officer position with the Rolla Police Department and has served us very well ever since. Congratulations Steve!

In closing, I would like to remind you that the holiday season is upon us and even though it is a time for joy and happiness it is also a time where we see an increase in home invasions, thefts from vehicles and credit card fraud. This time of year predators come out in force hoping to catch you leaving your homes and cars unsecured, purses and wallets unattended and not using caution when using credit or debit cards. During the holidays many families leave home to visit family and friends and leave their homes unattended. If you plan to leave for the holidays, remember to secure all doors and windows, stop newspaper and mail delivery and use timers on lights and other electronics to ward off burglars. If you have an alarm system, be sure to arm it as you leave. Contact a trusted neighbor or family member to watch your residence while you are gone. Contact the Rolla Police Department and set up a vacation security check which will allow us to check your residence periodically while you are away.

Also remember to lock your vehicles, especially while shopping. Do not leave tempting items in plain view inside your vehicles. If you must leave items inside, cover them or place them in the trunk. Try to park your vehicle in lighted areas and if shopping at night, try to shop with a buddy. Remember there is safety in numbers.

And finally, if you are a victim of a crime, be sure to report it to us as soon as possible. If we do not know that it occurred, we cannot help.

Have a great holiday!

Lieutenant Rick Williams

Police Chief Chat

This past week, the Rolla Police Department handled 646 calls for service. Of these calls there were: 26 arrests, 13 alarms calls, 24 accident reports, 34 traffic complaints, 10 check the well being requests, 72 traffic stops, 25 disturbance (including domestics) calls, 15 suspicious nature complaints, 23 assists of other agency requests, 11 field interviews, 11 escorts, 10 leave without pay reports, 44 animal control calls, 5 mental health complaints, 2 littering calls, 6 destruction of property reports, 3 juvenile complaints, 1 sex crime and 5 telephone harassment complaints. This call total is down 67 calls from last week, but yet another busy week!

On Tuesday, November 15, 2011 I attended the monthly meeting of the Missouri Police Chief’s Association, held in Jefferson City, Missouri. The monthly meetings are an opportunity to gather with other police chief’s across Missouri and discuss crime analogy, enforcement techniques and strategies and also to learn of any new programs or equipment offered to enhance a law enforcement agency’s capabilities. This past week I learned of a program that will be adopted by other agencies across the state as tool to combat teen substance abuse. The program is the Missouri Police Chief’s Home Drug Testing Program. Do you think your teen may be experimenting with drugs, alcohol or tobacco? It is best to solve problems before they occur or get much worse. Unfortunately “friends” often try harder to make kids who say “no” to drugs, alcohol and tobacco feel like outcasts. Home testing kits have emerged that protect privacy and provide kids with a socially acceptable excuse, “My parents test me.” For years, police have been the first to know when local kids used drugs while their parents were often the last to know. Now there is a way to reverse that trend. We will have more on the Home Testing Program in the near future.

The Rolla Police Department was notified this week that we were awarded a Local Law Enforcement Block Grant in the amount of $10,000.00. The grant is to be used to purchase law enforcement related equipment and will be used to purchase 1 patrol car light bar, 1 in-car camera, 10 LED flashlights and 47 pairs of Kevlar cut resistant patrol gloves. These gloves will be resistant to needles and other sharp objects, officers are likely to discover while doing vehicle and suspect searches. In addition we purchased barrel bolts and bright yellow plastic safety bolts for rifles and handguns to be utilized during training scenarios in an effort to insure weapons cannot fire during these events. This decision was based on an incident recently where a Missouri police officer was killed during a firearms training scenario. This grant required 10% of the awarded amount in matching funds that was paid for out of an illegal drug forfeiture fund.

This weekend the Rolla Police Department will be joining efforts with statewide law enforcement agencies across Missouri for an aggressive "Click it or Ticket" mobilization to get more motorists to buckle up and save more lives. Despite evidence proving the benefits of wearing a seat belt, nearly one in four Missouri motorists are still not making it click. Seven out of 10 Missourians killed in traffic crashes are unbuckled. Local motorists should be prepared for stepped up "Click it or Ticket" enforcement, says Sgt. Tim Mayfield. "We'll be out there to remind you that seat belts can - and do - save lives." Buckle Up and Arrive Alive! For more information on Missouri seat belt usage, visit www.saveMOlives.com.

Well the holiday season is just around the corner with Thanksgiving next week and the Christmas shopping season following on black Friday. We are already seeing an increase in shoplifting apprehensions in our local businesses and thefts from vehicles is also on the rise. Remember while shopping to keep handbags and wallets secure and be protective of credit cards, debit cards and pin numbers. Do not leave purses and handbags unattended in shopping carts or in plain view in your vehicles. It is best to refrain from keeping any valuables in vehicles but if necessary be sure to keep them out of sight and remember to lock your vehicles and take the keys with you. This also seems to be the time of year where we have more reports of fraud or attempted fraud over the telephone or internet. Scammers typically call a resident and tell them a sob story of how a dearly departed relative of the caller has passed away and left a large amount of money to the scammer. They will then try to obtain your checking or savings account numbers and promise to deposit a large amount of money in the account if you promise to pay some obligatory fees. Of course you will never see your money again, or theirs either. Remember the basic rule to scams. If it appears to be too good to be true, then it probably is too good to be true. Be safe and have a happy Thanksgiving.

Have a great week!

Chief Mark Kearse

Police Chief Chat

This past week, the Rolla Police Department handled 713 calls for service. Of these calls there were: 19 arrests, 8 alarms, 20 accidents, 36 traffic complaints, 10 check the well being, 124 traffic stops, 23 disturbance (including domestics), 17 suspicious nature, 18 assists of other agencies, 11 field interviews, 9 escorts, 10 leave without pays, 37 animal control, 5 mental health, 4 fingerprint requests, 2 fights and 5 abandon vehicles. This call total is up 25 calls from last week. Yet another busy week!

On Friday, November 11, 2011 we celebrated Veteran’s Day which is a day when the nation recognizes the men and women who have proudly served our country in the US Armed Services. Veteran’s from the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines and US Coast Guard were remembered for their patriotism, honor, duty and sacrifice as they boldly stepped forward in defense of our great nation. All veterans from the newest recruit just entering boot camp, the men and women fighting present day battles and to those entombed in Arlington deserve our respect, support, reflection and unending gratitude for allowing us to continue to live our lives as free Americans! Thank you to all our veterans for what you are about to do, what you are doing and what you have done!

The Rolla Police Department is very proud of our own Veteran heroes who have served in the past and are continuing to serve today. Our Veterans include S/Sgt Jim Macormic, Lt. Rick Williams, Sgt Kenny Moberly, Sgt. Will Loughridge, Sgt. Ken Nakanishi, Det. Robert Jones, Cpl. Adam Meyer, Cpl. John Frey, Spo. Luke Kearse, Pto. Chris Reeder, Pco. Larry Seest, ACO/ Mgr. John Redshaw, Telecommunicator Matt Goss, Res. Mike Watson, Res. Brandon Cole, Res. Mike Hargis, Res. Tim Boone, Res. Scott Langley, Res. Steve Roukie, VIPS Don Rowland, VIPS Don Reed, VIPS Keith LeCroix, and Spo. Tommy Davis and Pto. (Cadet) Phil Moss who are currently serving overseas. To you we owe our freedom!

This past week the Rolla Police Department conducted our bi-annual firearms training and qualifications. The training was orchestrated by S.W.A.T. Leader Spo. Luke Kearse and his team consisting of S/Sgt. Jim Macormic, Sgt. Jeremy Martens, Sgt. Ken Nakanishi, Cpl. John Frey, Cpl. Josh Campbell, Pco. Larry Seest, VIPS Director Vince Giacolone and Reserve Officer Dave Reynolds. The training was a 2-day event consisting of 2 hours of classroom instruction on weapon safety and function and range safety and procedure. The range training included speed and accuracy drills, precision drills and a qualification course for handguns, rifles and shotguns. By policy all Rolla Police Department commissioned officers are required to receive training and to qualify with their issued weapons twice a year. Great job guys!

On Wednesday and Thursday of this week, the Rolla Police Department S.W.A.T. team participated in a 2-day training program that included entry and suppression drills, range work and sniper/spotter scenarios. The S.W.A.T. team consists of patrol officers and supervisors who have undergone extensive training and conditioning to qualify them to complete missions that require special weapons and tactics that typical patrol units may not possess.

The Rolla Police Department will be joining efforts with statewide law enforcement November 18 for an aggressive "Click it or Ticket" mobilization to get more motorists to buckle up and save more lives. Despite evidence proving the benefits of wearing a seat belt, nearly one in four Missouri motorists are still not making it click. Seven out of 10 Missourians killed in traffic crashes are unbuckled. Local motorists should be prepared for stepped up "Click it or Ticket" enforcement, says Sgt. Tim Mayfield. "We'll be out there to remind you seat belts can - and do - save lives." Buckle Up and Arrive Alive! For more information on Missouri seat belt usage, visit www.saveMOlives.com.

In closing, this past Monday the Rolla City Council approved the plan to use money seized from illegal drug dealers to finance the purchase of 12 new Police patrol vehicles to replace the aging fleet currently in use. Many of our current patrol cars and specialty vehicles have accumulated well over 100,000 miles and spend more time in maintenance than they do in fleet operation. In addition the aging fleet has become a safety issue for our officers who spend many hours per shift in these vehicles. We are expecting delivery of the new vehicle in 60-90 days. In addition we were also able to purchase a new animal control truck from funds budgeted to replace the ’95 F-150 currently in use.

Have a great week!

Chief Mark Kearse

Police Chief Chat

Drug watch: On October 30, 2011 Deputies from the Phelps County Sheriff’s Department completed a two month narcotics investigation that resulted in the arrest of two men from Phelps County. During the two month period information was gathered from a number of sources and short term surveillances. Upon consolidation of this information, it was presented to the Phelps County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office and a Search warrant was issued. In the late afternoon hours of October 30, 2011 the Phelps County Warrant Service Team served the Search Warrant at 12320 County Road 2030, the residence of Mr. Samuel Dean Schendel, age 55. During the service of the warrant, multiple pounds of marijuana, drug paraphernalia and prescription medications were seized. Mr. Schendel and Mr. Payton Wade Paxston, age 31, of Rural Rolla were both arrested on the scene. Mr. Schendel is presently incarcerated in the Phelps County Jail pending the posting of $100,000.00 bond. Mr. Paxston was released without formal charges pending further investigation. The charges for which Mr. Schendel and Paxston have been arrested are merely accusations and are not evidence of guilt. Evidence in support of the charges must be presented before a court of competent jurisdiction whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence. Great job PCSD!

This past week, the Rolla Police Department handled 688 calls for service. Of these calls there were: 29 arrests, 13 alarms, 23 accidents, 41 traffic complaints, 19 check the well being, 95 traffic stops, 18 disturbance (including domestics), 13 suspicious nature, 21 assists of other agencies, 3 field interviews, 12 escorts, 5 leave without pays, 47 animal control, 2 shots fired, 4 fingerprint requests, 3 mental health. 2 trespassing and 3 destruction of properties. This call total is down 29 calls from last week and although a little better, it was still a busy week.

S/Sgt. Jim Macormic reports that a Nationwide Emergency Alert System Test will take place on November 9, 2011 The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) will conduct the first nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS). The nationwide test will occur on Wednesday, November 9 at 1 p.m. central time and may last up to three and a half minutes. The public will hear a message indicating that "This is a test." The audio message will be the same for both radio, television, and cable. The National-level EAS is a public alert and warning system that enables the President of the United States to address the American public during extreme emergencies. Similar to local EAS tests that are conducted frequently, the Nationwide Test will involve broadcast radio and television stations, cable television, satellite radio and television. For more information visit

http://www.fema.gov/emergency/ipaws/eas_info.shtm .

Monday, October 31, 2011 was Halloween and the Rolla community celebrated with the Downtown Business Owner’s Associations “Have a Safe Trick or Treat Night” where hundreds of children and parents converged on the downtown businesses in search of Halloween candy. In addition to some great candy and other goodies there were many other attractions all along Pine St. There was at least one haunted house, a presentation by the Drama Force crew and a surprise “Flash Mob” dance, that all took place throughout the night. We had our Reserve Officers paired with Police Explorers patrolling the downtown area. We had Staff Officers and Patrol Officers patrolling the neighborhoods and VIPS Volunteers checking parks and cemeteries. The unseasonably warm and dry evening was responsible for larger crowds both downtown and in the neighborhoods. In spite of the additional crowds the entire event went very well with little or no problems reported. We would like to thank both our Reserve and VIPS Volunteers and you the community for helping us keep this Halloween event safe for all who participated. We could not have done it without you.

On Friday, November 04, 2011, we participated in the 4th Annual Operation Neighborhood Clean-up were we partner with the Rolla Ministerial Alliance and other government agencies such as the Missouri State Highway Patrol, Phelps County Sheriff’s Department, CenturyLink, Fidelity Communications, City of Rolla entities to include Public Works, Solid Waste and the Rolla City Council to join in with volunteers from the community to target a particular area within the community and work together in a clean-up event. Typically we trim trees shrubs, mow lawns, remove trash and debris, clear fence lines and haul away old appliances. We try to provide this service to those that are unable to do the work themselves, but many times the resident will jump right in there with us. This year we chose the Johnson/Laird subdivision and the adjoining Huffman Trailer Park. Crews went in followed pre-submitted work orders that were prepared as per the resident. The operation began at around 7:00 am and concluded a little after 12:00 p.m. We would like to thank all the previously named agencies as well as our diligent volunteers for making this year’s event a success. We would also like to thank our sponsors to include Panera Bread, Kroger, Pepsi-Cola, Coca-Cola and Jim Butler and the Carpenter’s Local Union No. 2298 for all their help.

Have a great week!

Lieutenant Rick Williams

Police Chief Chat

Drug watch: This past week, the Rolla Police Department Street Crimes Unit searched a residence in the Johnson-Laird subdivision and discovered heroin, methamphetamine, (2) pounds of processed marijuana, prescription narcotics, ammunition, a bullet-proof vest and a stolen “Drug Sales – Not in our Town” banner. Arrests were made and warrants are being sought.

On Wednesday, October 19, 2011, members of South Central Drug Task Force, in coordination with the Phelps County Sheriff’s Department, Rolla Police Department, and Missouri State Highway Patrol, launched another drug round-up where 11 more individuals charged with distribution/sales/possession of methamphetamine, cocaine, marijuana, heroin and prescription medications were being sought on Grand Jury indictments for those charges. The majority of those named in the indictments in this round-up reside in Pulaski County, however 2 of those sought reside in Phelps County. This series of indictments stems from an 18 month investigation that has netted over 90 arrests to date. This round-up up is the 4th such event in as many months with many more on the horizon. Arrest teams consist of members of the Phelps County Sheriff’s Department, Rolla Police Department, Lake Area Narcotics Enforcement Group, Missouri State Highway Patrol and the Pulaski County Sheriff’s Department. The success of this investigation was only possible through the cooperative efforts of all agencies involved to include. South Central Drug Task Force, Missouri State Highway Patrol, Phelps County Sheriff’s Department, Phelps County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, Rolla Police Department, and the Lake Area Narcotics Enforcement Group. I very proud of the team effort of area L.E. in catching those that sell drugs in our community

On Saturday, October 29, 2011, the Drug Enforcement Administration, Missouri Division of Alcohol and Drug Abuse, the Phelps County Advocacy Network, Prevention Consultants of Missouri and the Rolla Police Department will host a “Prescription Drug Take Back” event in the parking lot of the First Presbyterian Church located at 1019 East 10th Street in Rolla. Area residents are encouraged to bring in their old prescription medications for disposal. Needles or used inject able solutions will not be accepted.

This past week, the Rolla Police Department handled 764 calls for service. Of these calls there were: 33 arrests, 9 alarms, 20 accidents, 46 traffic complaints, 12 check the well being, 143 traffic stops, 29 disturbance (including domestics), 6 suspicious nature, 18 assists of other agencies, 1 telephone harassment, 5 narcotics complaints, 48 animal control, 1 no business license, 4 benevolent funds and 10 field interviews. This call total is up 41 calls from last week and yes, another busy week!

Telecommunications Chief Paula Volkmer reports that this past week, telecommunicators Tom Grisham and Keri Lloyd attended a 3 day certification training to perform emergency medical dispatching. Emergency medical dispatch training is utilized in our communication center when a caller is reporting a crisis such as; severe injuries, heart attacks, strokes, child birth and much more. This training allows them to offer directions over the phone until emergency responders arrive on the scene. This training is put to use on many occasions in that just last week Telecommunications Supervisor Chuck Satterfield provided necessary instruction to assist ambulance personnel with a young expecting mother who didn’t quite make it to the ER before her baby was born. Great job Chuck and the EMS personnel! And congratulations to momma!

Well, the Fall season has arrived! Each October the Rolla Police Department begins preparation for the many annual Fall events to include the Downtown Crafts Fair held last weekend, and of course Monday, October 31st with our “Project Halloween” operation. This operation is very simple and designed to keep our children safe during this period of activity. The operation includes beefed up patrols by both our Patrol Division and our Volunteers in Police Services members. This year Halloween falls on Monday evening, which is when the traditional Halloween festivities will be observed in our neighborhoods. The Downtown Business Association will also host their annual “Have a Safe Trick or Treat Night” event on Monday, October 31, 2011, from 5 – 8 p.m. Local business and other organizations will be handing out candy and other treats to trick or treaters on Pine Street between 6th St. and 12th St.

Our main goal during the Halloween celebration is to keep our children safe. Please remember to use extreme caution when driving through both the downtown area and in our neighborhoods. We will have our officers out in force watching for unsafe actions, lost or missing children and traffic violations that create undo hazards for the participants. We would like to also offer a few safety tips to insure that you and your family have a safe and fun-filled Halloween:

1. Help your child pick out a costume that is fire-proof, reflective or light colored, with large eye openings and one that does not restrict movement.
2. If you display a candle-lit jack – o’- lantern be sure the placement is not too close to your home and away from the area trick or treaters will frequent.
3. Encourage children to travel in groups with at least one adult, and only frequent neighborhoods with which they are familiar.
4. Serve a hearty dinner prior to going out so the children will be less tempted to sample candy and treats that have not been checked by parents. Remember, “when in doubt throw it out!”
5. Teaching your children basic safety techniques such as, not getting into cars or talking to strangers, looking both ways before crossing streets and obeying cross walk margins, will make their Halloween experience safer.

This weekend, in the spirit of Halloween, there is a new event taking place at the Downtown Festival Lots. The Tri-County Humane Society is hosting a fundraiser “Zombie Walk” on Saturday, October 22, 2011 in effort to provide continued support for their animal shelter. Registration for the walk will begin at 11:00 a.m. with the actual “Zombie Walk” beginning at 12:00 p.m. The “zombies” will walk from the festival lots from 9th to Pine St., south on Pine Street to 7th St. East on 7th to Oak then north on Oak back to the Festival Lots where the event will include live music, a silent auction zombie Olympic games for the kids and a kissing booth. According to the promoters, Zombie Walks are taking place all over the country and are really fun to participate or watch from the sidelines.

In closing, the Rolla Police Department Golden Shield Awards Banquet will be held this Saturday, where officers, civilian and communications personnel are recognized for service above and beyond the day to day requirements of their assigned duties. Among the awards that could be presented are the Medal of Honor, Legion of Honor, Combat Cross, Wounded in Combat, Gallantry Star, Grand Cordon, Meritorious Service, Chief’s Achievement, Life-Saving, Samaritan, Judge JoAnn Mayberry Award and the Mayor’s Award. This is an annual event accompanied by a banquet which has been sponsored by the Behind the Badge organization.

Have a great week!

Chief Mark Kearse

Police Chief Chat

On Tuesday afternoon we learned of the passing of retired Missouri State Highway Patrol Sergeant and former Phelps County Sheriff Thomas W. Pasley. Tom Pasley was 96 years old at his passing and has been a legend in law enforcement for over 50 years. Pasley began is law enforcement career in 1939 when he was appointed to the Missouri State Highway Patrol. He served with the patrol until his retirement in 1972 at which time he ran for the position of Phelps County Sheriff. Pasley won the election and took office in 1973 where he served until his second retirement in 1988. During his time with the patrol he was noted for his excellent marksmanship with the pistol and was a member of the pistol team. He was the creator of the door emblem currently displayed on the MSHP cars and served on the “Safety Squadron”. As Sheriff, Pasley served 4 consecutive terms and was known as a Sheriff who cared for his community, and a true mentor to many up and coming law enforcement officers such as the current Sheriff Rick Lisenbe, our own Lt. Rick Williams, Telecommunications Supervisor Scott Olds, Phelps County Court Security Director Christopher Steen, and Phelps County Sheriff’s Dept. Cpl. Paul Lambert. He will be truly missed and our prayers go out to his family. Rest in Peace 65!

The United States Attorney’s Office announced on Tuesday that Lowell Aughenbaugh of Odell, IL was sentenced to 37 months in prison on illegal weapons charges, and threatening to injure family members and law enforcement officers. According to court documents, on December 31, 2009, during a series of telephone calls Aughenbaugh told family members that he planned to travel to Rolla, Missouri and harm his wife and any others who attempted to stop him. On January 3, 2010, law enforcement located and seized approximately 91 firearms and ammunition contained in two safes. Aughenbaugh had been using the safes to store the weapons and ammunition. Of the 91 firearms,15 were determined to be fully automatic “machine guns.” Aughenbaugh, 48, Odell, IL, pled guilty in July to one felony count of illegal possession of machine guns and one felony count of interstate communication of threats to injure another, and appeared today for sentencing before United States District Judge Stephen N. Limbaugh Jr. This case was investigated by the Phelps County Sheriff’s Department, Rolla Police Department, McCook, Illinois Police Department, Illinois State Police, Cook County Sheriff’s Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant United States Attorney Matthew Drake handled the case for the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

This past week, the Rolla Police Department handled 752 calls for service. Of these calls there were: 27 arrests, 11 alarms, 23 accidents, 40 traffic complaints, 11 check the well being, 106 traffic stops, 22 disturbance (including domestics), 19 suspicious nature, 24 assists of other agencies, 5 telephone harassments, 4 narcotics complaints, 42 animal control calls, 4 fights, 1 no business license, 4 loitering and 3 malicious mischief complaints. This call total is down 43 calls from last week but yet, another busy week!

This past week, Senior Patrol Officer Tony Lauth and members of the Rolla Street Crimes Division conducted an investigation into a stolen property case. During the course of the investigation, these officers received information to the whereabouts of stolen property in Texas County. After coordinating with the Texas County Sheriff's Office and the Licking Police Department, officers were able to recover approximately $2000.00 worth of stolen property. Arrests will follow, and there is a possibility of retrieving additional stolen property. Great job guys!

On Wednesday of this week, The Rolla Police Department conducted our annual physical training (pt) test for all sworn officers. The test conducted by Lt. Doug James and Det. Hank Harper consists of push-ups, sit-ups, sit and reach testing and a 1.5 mile run. All events are timed and scores are generated based on technique, strength, endurance and speed. All officers are required to participate in the test as well as new applicants applying for the position of police officer. This test is used to ensure that our police officers are capable in the performance of their duties. Beginning in 2012 the tests will be given twice a year.

The Rolla Police Department will be losing an icon next week as we return our leased motorcycle to Ozark Harley-Davidson. The motorcycle program has been in effect since 2002 when we began leasing the bikes from the Lebanon dealership. They were used for parade details, special events, funeral and dignitary escorts and traffic enforcement. This year, in an effort to help reduce the effects of the City of Rolla's budget constraints we let the bike go. If the situation improves next year, we may request to renew the program. The motorcycle was due back on Friday, but Ozark Harley-Davidson was kind enough to allow us to delay the return till next week, as to allow us to participate in Sheriff Pasley’s funeral procession.

Have a great week!

Chief Mark Kearse

Police Chief Chat

Drug Watch: This past week, the Rolla Street Crimes Unit conducted an investigation in the 1600 block of Martin Springs Drive.. As a result of the investigation, (2) females were arrested after falsely identifying themselves to officers. It was during a search for narcotics when officers learned their true identity and discovered numerous warrants for their arrests. The search of the room also yielded methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.

Also this past week, the Rolla Street Crimes Unit conducted (2) methamphetamine laboratory investigations, netting (4) individuals who were arrested then interviewed revealing that they were purchasing methamphetamine ingredients legally then trading them to meth cooks for the narcotic.

Here in Drug Watch we would like to congratulate the members of the Phelps County Sheriff’s Department for their recent investigation that led to the arrest of a 56 year old Rolla man for cultivation of marijuana on property in northern Phelps County. Deputies reported discovering in excess of 150 plants ranging in size from three to nine feet in height. During a subsequent search of adjacent buildings a large amount of processed marijuana was also located. Samples of the plants and the processed marijuana were retained as evidence and the remaining plants were later destroyed. Great job guys!

This past week, the Rolla Police Department handled 712 calls for service. Of these calls there were: 20 arrests, 10 alarm calls, 26 accident reports, 29 traffic complaints, 8 check the well being requests, 138 traffic stops, 25 disturbance calls (including domestics), 13 suspicious nature complaints, 18 assists of other agencies, 7 narcotics violations, 11 security checks, 19 bank and funeral escorts, 6 mental health cases, 3 open doors, 4 telephone harassment complaints, 4 assault reports and 22 stealing complaints. This call total is up 133 calls from last week and yes, another busy week!

I would like to take this opportunity to announce recent appointments and promotions within the Rolla Police Department. First, I am proud to announce that Cpl. Derrick Dillon has been offered and has accepted a position as an investigator with our Criminal Investigations Unit. Cpl. Dillon began his law enforcement career with the Rolla Police Department as a Police Cadet in January of 2004. In April of 2004 upon completion of his law enforcement certification, Cpl. Dillon was then assigned as a patrolman. In April of 2006 Dillon attained the rank of Senior Patrol Officer then in September of 2006 he was promoted to Corporal. Cpl. Dillon has served on the S.W.A.T. team, is a Field Training Officer and is also a certified Crisis Negotiator. Cpl. Dillon’s new assignment will offer new challenges as a criminal investigator and I wish him the best.

On Wednesday of this week, S/Sgt. Rick Williams was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant. Lt. Williams began his law enforcement career with the Phelps County Sheriff’s Department where he served for 22 years. In July of 2000, Lt. Williams accepted a position with the Rolla Police Department as a School Resource Officer. Williams was then appointed as Community Police Officer where he served until being appointed Detective in the Criminal Investigations Unit in October of 2003. Williams served in that capacity until his promotion to S/Sgt in charge of Emergency Operations in October of 2006. Williams served in that capacity until his recent appointment to Lieutenant. Congratulations Rick!

On Monday night, the Volunteers in Police Services (VIPS) personnel gathered at Rolla City Hall to provide an opportunity to members of the City Council to view the new VIPS patrol car. During the City Council meeting Mayor Bill Jenks presented Rolla Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Aaron Zalis and his staff at the Rolla Technical Institute with a Certificate of Appreciation for their contribution of the new VIPS patrol car to the Rolla Police Department, the City of Rolla and the community. VIPS Director, Officer Vince Giacolone presented a video production to council members of the progress of the new car as it was transformed from a near totally damaged vehicle, to that of a proud representation of the School/VIPS/Police/Community partnership. We truly appreciate our friends at the Rolla Public Schools and the staff and students at the Rolla Technical Institute for their contribution to this project.

In closing, I would like to invite you to attend the Celebration of Nations parade and festival offered by Missouri S&T as a way to enlighten the community on the true cultural diversity represented here at Missouri S&T. The parade will begin at the Havener Center and travel along State Street to 11th St. Then along 11th to Rolla Streets. From Rolla Street it will travel to 7th, up 7th to Pine, up Pine to 9th, then ending at the festival lots. The parade will feature entries from several different cultures and 5 different bands, floats, our new VIPS patrol car and many other features. The festival will offer food vendors, cultural displays, a 23 foot replica of the Eiffel Tower and a petting zoo among many other attractions.

Have a great week!

Chief Mark Kearse

Police Chief Chat

Drug Watch: On Thursday, September 8, 2011, members of South Central Drug Task Force, in coordination with the Phelps County Sheriff’s Department, Rolla Police Department, and the Missouri State Highway Patrol, concluded a series of long term narcotics investigations in Phelps County, Missouri. Over the course of approximately 18 months, officers with South Central Drug Task Force, Phelps County Sheriff’s Department, Rolla Police Street Crimes Unit, and Missouri State Highway Patrol were able to conduct a series of narcotics investigations involving the distribution/sales/possession of methamphetamine, cocaine, marijuana, heroin, and prescription medications.

The investigation involved approximately 70 individuals in and around the Phelps County, Missouri area. Grand Jury Indictments for each defendant were obtained through the Phelps County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office prior to the mass arrest operation initiated this morning. Arrest teams consist of members of the Phelps County Sheriff’s Department, Maries County Sheriff’s Department, Rolla Police Department, St James Police Department, Lake Area Narcotics Enforcement Group, Missouri State Highway Patrol, and South Central Drug Task Force. Great job to all involved. This is the second operation of this type in as many weeks. We will continue to launch these investigations here in this community until those involved in these illegal activities, are arrested, move on or change their way of life.

This past week the Rolla Police Department handled 743 calls for service. Of these calls there were: 43 arrests, 16 alarms, 23 accidents, 49 traffic complaints, 11 check the well being, 98 traffic stops, 20 disturbance (including domestics), 12 suspicious nature, 11 assists of other agencies, 4 narcotics violations, 14 security checks, 15 escorts, 4 abandoned vehicles, 5 harassment complaints, 6 mental health, 6 trespasses, 4 recovered property, 58 911 hang ups and 6 juvenile complaints. This call total is down 105 calls from last week, but yet another busy week!

The City of Rolla Fire & Rescue and the Rolla Police Department invite the public to a remembrance ceremony for the 10th Anniversary of the tragic events of September 11, 2001. The memorial ceremony, entitled “A Day of Remembrance: Honoring Those of 9/11” will be held on Sunday, September 11, 2011 at 1 p.m. at the Rolla Middle School Auditorium, in Rolla. The purpose of the hour-long commemoration is to give thanks and pay tribute to the victims and heroes who lost their lives on 9-11 and acted without fear, acted without hesitation, and gave their lives to save others. The ceremony, sponsored by the City of Rolla Fire & Rescue, will feature remarks from City of Rolla Administration, City of Rolla Fire Chief Robert Williams, Phelps County Sheriff Rick Lisenbe, Rolla Police Chief Mark Kearse, Ray Massey, Phelps County Regional Medical Center EMS, and Rolla Rural Fire Chief Bruce Southard. The tribute includes the City of Rolla Fire & Rescue Honor Guard presenting the colors with the Greentree Learning & Child Care Center performing. A traditional fire service “tolling of the bell” will conclude the service. On Sunday, in support of our great nation, we would like to ask the citizens of our community to proudly fly our great flag in remembrance of those who have fallen.

• On September 04, 2011, at approximately 10:20 a.m., the Rolla Police Department received a report of a burglary incident that occurred at a restaurant, located in the 1100 block of Kingshighway in Rolla. During the initial report, it was reported that an unidentified subject had broke into the business and had stolen an undetermined amount of cash, along with the two cash registers. During the initial follow-up investigation that was conducted by Spo. Robertson, surveillance video which had captured an image of the suspect during the commission of the crime, was seized as evidence and this information and a photograph was passed along to the other officers. At approximately 1640 hours this same afternoon, while acting on a tip that was received from the owner of the restaurant, Pto. Chris Giacolone located a suspect who matched the description of the person involved in the incident. This person was located at a business adjacent to the restaurant. As a result of his follow-up investigation, Pto Giacolone and Cpl. Derrick Dillon interviewed the suspect and obtained a full confession from the suspect regarding his involvement in the burglary. As a result of additional follow-up investigation stemming from the officers interview with the suspect, Spo. Chrissy Smith was able to locate both cash registers and recovered them from a brushy area directly behind the motel. In addition to this, several items of bloody clothing which were worn by the suspect during the commission of the crime were recovered from the suspects motel room, along with illegal narcotics and drug paraphernalia.

As a result of the investigation that was conducted by Spo Robertson, Pto Giacolone, Spo. Smith and Cpl. Dillon, Nicholas J. Light, age 22 of Rolla was arrested for Burglary in the 2nd Degree and Stealing. Light was incarcerated on a 24 hour hold. Great job to all involved!

In closing we would like to thank the Rolla Public Schools for their donation of the new Volunteers In Police Service police car that took numerous hours of work that was put in by the students of the Rolla Technical Institute. This vehicle will make a great addition to the VIPS program. The new patrol car will be used for patrol duties, public relations and many other events.

Have a great week!


Chief Mark Kearse

Police Chief Chat

This past week, the Rolla Police Department handled 796 calls for service. Of these calls there were: 23 arrests, 18 alarm calls, 18 traffic accident reports, 51 traffic complaints, 17 check the well being requests, 108 traffic stops, 27 disturbance calls (including domestics), 20 suspicious nature complaints, 25 assists of other agencies, 6 narcotics violations, 13 security checks, 15 business escorts, 4 soliciting complaints, 2 lost or stolen property reports and 1 business license complaint. This call total is down 52 calls from last week, but yet another busy week.

• Since its inception, the Rolla Police Department’s VIPS (Volunteers in Police Service) program has had a close relationship with the Rolla Public Schools. Every school day, VIPS personnel regularly patrol a 2-3 block radius around each school, helping to ensure student safety. In addition, VIPS volunteers monitor traffic speed around the schools, assist the crossing guards, manage summer school traffic, participate in safety presentations and functions at all the schools, and generally assist the School Resource Officer when needed.

In January of 2009, the VIPS program began operations with two patrol vehicles. Both vehicles were used extensively as RPD patrol vehicles prior to the vehicles being assigned to the program. Due to growth in the program, and the fact that each VIPS vehicle had well over 100,000 miles, it was decided that VIPS needed another vehicle to complement existing road operations. Given the level of VIPS activity with the Rolla School District, Captain Jason Smith approached district Superintendent Dr. Aaron Zalis about the possibility of providing a third vehicle to the VIPS’ fleet. Dr. Zalis liked the idea and asked his staff at the Rolla Technical Institute to look for a vehicle (possibly a wrecked police car that could be repaired at RTI) to integrate into the existing fleet. Within a couple of weeks, Collision Repair Instructor Mike Hoffstetter found a 2010 Crown Victoria police car at St. James Auto Salvage that had been in a wreck. Captain Smith and VIPS Director Vince Giacolone looked at the vehicle and determined that, after repair, the vehicle would be perfect for the VIPS program.

•

• In February 2011, the car was purchased by the district and moved to the RTI body shop for repairs. At about the same time, Angie Yowell, RTI’s graphic arts instructor was contacted about the possibility of using the students in her graphics design class to design the exterior graphics for the new VIPS patrol vehicle. Angie liked the idea because it would give her students “real world” design experience. Rough parameters and guidelines were established in two separate meetings and the graphic arts students were then given the challenge of creating the graphic “wrap” for the vehicle. Within three weeks, Angie presented RPD with forty different graphic designs, one from each student, for the wrap. Chief Kearse, Captain Smith and Vince Giacolone selected five of the best designs, and within one week, met one more time in early April with Ms. Yowell to select the final design that would be used on the new VIPS vehicle. Once the design was selected, final body work was completed on the vehicle the graphic design package was given to Sign Dimensions, of Rolla for the exterior wrap to be applied; this was the first week of May. Two weeks later, the car was returned with the wrap in place, but all parties, RPD, RTI, even Sign Dimensions, agreed that the colors in the wrap did not match the anticipated colors presented in the design package. Several attempts at color matching were made during the summer months, but finally the new VIPS car was accepted by RTI and RPD on August 18. Emergency lights, sirens and radios are being installed at the present time.

The Rolla Police Department Volunteers in Police Services and the Rolla Public Schools would like to invite you to the first annual RTI/RTC Family night "Cruise-In" at the Rolla Technical Institute located at 1304 E. 10th St. on Thursday, September 8, 2011 from 6 - 8 p.m. The "Cruise-in" will feature custom cars and motorcycles on display and will also be the chosen site for the unveiling of the new Volunteers in Police Services Patrol Car provided by the Rolla Public Schools. We are very excited about the introduction of this "specialty" vehicle to our VIPS program and would like to invite you and your family to share in the excitement. There will be several of our VIPS volunteers on hand to answer any questions you may have concerning the new VIPS patrol car or the VIPS program.

In celebration of the upcoming introduction of our new Volunteers in Police Services vehicle, we would like to announce that on Saturday, September 24, 2011 the new VIPS Patrol car will be featured in the upcoming Celebration of Nations Parade. If you would like to be part of this celebration and ride along in the parade with VIPS Director Vince Giacolone, simply tell us on FaceBook what you like about our VIPS program or about how a VIPS volunteer/officer has provided a service you have witnessed. We will review the stories and choose 2 winners to be our Guest of Honor in the parade. Contest will end on September 21, 2011. Let the stories begin!

This past week the Rolla Police Department was notified by the Missouri Department of Transportation Traffic & Highway Safety Division that they will continue to provide us with grant funds for the 2012 fiscal year. During the last few years these funds have been used to combat impaired driving, aggressive driving and occupant protection enforcement by providing funds for manpower and equipment. Over the next several weeks our Patrol Division will be taking part in the “You Drink and Drive, You Lose” driving while intoxicated campaign where enhanced patrols will be conducted targeting intoxicated drivers, speeding violations and careless and imprudent driving incidences.

And in closing I am proud to announce recent promotions within the Rolla Police Department. Effective September 4, 2011 Sgt. Tim Mayfield will begin his duties as shift supervisor in the Patrol Division. Sgt. Mayfield began his tenure with the Rolla Police Department as a Police Explorer. He then went on to become a telecommunicator in Central Dispatch. After a period there, he became interested in becoming a police officer and was appointed to the patrol division where he attained the rank of Corporal, then Sergeant. Sgt. Mayfield left the Rolla Police Department for a brief period to take a position as a Fire Fighter with Rolla Fire and Rescue. Tim then returned to us as a Corporal where he has served remarkably thereby warranting his promotion to Sergeant. Congratulations Tim!

I am also very proud to announce that effective September 4, 2011 Corporal Josh Campbell of the Street Crimes Unit will begin his duties as supervisor of the Street Crimes Unit and the Police K-9 Unit. Josh began his law enforcement career with the Houston, Missouri Police Department before transferring to the South Central Drug Task Force where he served as an agent in covert drug operations. Cpl. Campbell then joined the Rolla Police Department where he continued to serve with the SCDTF until becoming a member of the Street Crimes Unit and K-9 handler. Congratulations Josh.

And last but not least I would like to congratulate Senior Patrol Officer Luke Kearse on his appointment as S.W.A.T. Team Leader. Spo. Kearse served in the U.S. Marine Corps., before joining the Rolla Police Department in January of 2003. Spo. Kearse served in the Patrol Division until his activation in the U.S. Marine Corps. Reserves where he served a year long term in Iraq. Spo. Kearse returned to the Police Department and was critical in the implementation of the newly formed Street Crimes Unit where he currently is assigned. Kearse’s training and experience will be a tremendous asset to the S.W.A.T. team leadership. Congratulations Luke!

Have a great week!

Chief Mark Kearse

Police Chief Chat

Drug Watch :
On Thursday, August 25, 2011 at approximately 6:00 a.m. members of the South Central Drug Task Force, Phelps County Sheriff’s Department, Rolla Police Department, St. James Police Department and the Missouri State Highway Patrol gathered at the Phelps County Sheriff’s Department and formulated a plan of attack on the execution of over 25 grand jury indictments handed down in relation to illegal drug activity here in Phelps County. Arrest teams comprised of officers from the aforementioned agencies were provided with defendant arrest packets the included the grand jury indictment, location information and photos of the arrestees. Within minutes teams were returning to the Sheriff’s Department with the arrestees in custody. The defendants were forwarded through the booking process that includes photos, fingerprints, an interview and then incarceration. pending bond

This operation stems from the conclusion of a long term narcotics investigation conducted in Phelps County. Over the course of approximately 18 months officers with the South Central Drug Task Force, Phelps County Sheriff’s Department and Rolla Police Department’s Street Crimes Unit, were able to conduct a series of narcotics investigations involving the distribution/sales/possession of methamphetamine, cocaine, marijuana, heroin and prescription medications. The investigation involved loosely affiliated individuals in and around the Phelps County area. This investigation was aided by the 25th Judicial Circuit and the Phelps County Grand Jury that was convened by their authority. Grand Jury Indictments for each defendant were obtained through the Phelps County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, prior to the mass operation initiated this morning.
The following individuals were arrested:

• Romero C. Miller, 28, Rolla, Missouri, Phelps County Warrant for distribution, deliver, manufacture, produce a controlled substance;
• Melissa D. Parks, 28, Rolla, Phelps County Warrant for distribution, deliver, manufacture, produce a controlled substance (three counts);
• Sheila D. Quigley, 23, Rolla, Phelps County Warrant for distribution deliver, manufacture, produce a controlled substance;
• Daniel A. Jones, 33, Rolla, Phelps County Warrant for distribution, deliver, manufacture, produce a controlled substance (three counts);
• Donald J. Colvin, 52, Rolla, Phelps County Warrants for distribution deliver, manufacture, produce a controlled substance and felony possession of a controlled substance;
• Ashlee Smith, 24, Rolla, Phelps County Warrant for distribution deliver, manufacture, produce a controlled substance;
• Sean R. Barber, 38, St. James, Missouri, Phelps County Warrant for distribution, deliver, manufacture, produce a controlled substance;
• Joyce D. Glenn, 45, St. James, Phelps County Warrant for distribution, deliver, manufacture, produce a controlled substance;
• Tabitha A. Lewis, 23, St. James, Phelps County Warrant for possession of a controlled substance (two counts);
• Jamieann E. Heidbreder, 20, St. James, Phelps County Warrant for possession of chemicals with intent to manufacture methamphetamine;
• Terrell O. Luster, 38, St. Louis, Missouri, Phelps County Warrant for possession of a controlled substance;
• Clark S. Watson Jr., 40, Rolla, Phelps County Warrants for possession of a controlled substance and distribution or deliver of not more than 5 grams of marijuana;
• Denise M. Ward, 29, Rolla, Phelps County Warrant for distribution, deliver, manufacture, produce a controlled substance (three counts);
• Brandi L. Dvorak, 28, Rolla, Phelps County Warrant for distribution, deliver, manufacture, produce a controlled substance (two counts);
• Dwan L. Estep, 28, St. James, Phelps County Warrants for possession of chemicals with intent to manufacture methamphetamine and possession of a controlled substance;
• Travis D. Mathews, 23, Rolla, Phelps County Warrant for possession of a controlled substance;
• Larry T. Nason, 31, Rolla, Phelps County Warrant for possession of a controlled substance;
• Larry G. Forester, 62, Newburg, Missouri, Phelps County Warrant for possession of a controlled substance;
• Charles E. Faulkner Jr., 52, Rolla, Phelps County Warrants for possession of a controlled substance (three counts) and manufacture of a controlled substance;
• Dennis Elms Jr., 31, Rolla, Phelps County Warrant for possession of chemicals with intent to manufacture methamphetamine;
• Dixie Faulkner, 22, Rolla, Phelps County Warrant for possession of a controlled substance;
• Dennis R. Neese, Rolla, Phelps County Warrant for distribution, deliver, manufacture, produce a controlled substance (three counts) and
• Jerry L. Bonebrake II, 24, Rolla, Phelps County Warrant for distribution, deliver, manufacture, produce a controlled substance.

Also arrested during the round-up, for non drug related charges, were:

Virgil V. Gargus III, 31, St. James, Phelps County Warrant for Child Molestation, first degree and
Heather Steffe, 25, Rolla, Phelps County Warrant for stealing (eight counts).
Gargus was arrested as a result of an investigation conducted by the Phelps County Sheriff’s Department. The arrest of Steffe was a result of an investigation by the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control. The charges for which these individuals have been arrested are mere accusations and are not evidence of guilt. Evidence in support of the charges must be presented before a court of competent jurisdiction whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

The South Central Drug Task Force is a multi-jurisdictional drug task force coordinated by the Missouri State Highway Patrol. The task force specializes in narcotics related investigations and is composed of narcotics officers by the Missouri State Highway Patrol, Phelps County Sheriff’s Department and Rolla Police Department, as well as directly employed specialists. As you can imagine, those that abuse and deal in illegal drugs are determined to keep their operation strong and secretive and will go to great lengths to do so. Just the fact that our combined law enforcement efforts are able to consistently infiltrate these operations and bring the perpetrators to justice says a lot. Here in Phelps County the Phelps County Sheriff’s Department, Missouri State Highway Patrol, Rolla and St. James Police Department, South Central Drug Task Force, Phelps County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, and the 25th Judicial Circuit Court work hand in hand to reach one common goal and that is to keep the citizens in our community safe and those that deal in illegal drug activity wondering when they are next!

This past week, the Rolla Police Department handled 848 calls for service. Of these calls there were: 32 arrests, 22 alarms, 19 accidents, 60 traffic complaints, 11 check the well being, 147 traffic stops, 31 disturbance (including domestics), 15 suspicious nature, 19 assists of other agencies, 6 narcotics violations, 28 security checks, 15 escorts, 23 follow up investigations, 3 fights, 3 fingerprint requests and 3 trespassing complaints. This call total is up 136 calls from last week and yes, another busy week!

Unbelievable! One more person and we have 7000 loyal FaceBook fans. We started our FaceBook page in December of 2009 as a tool to keep the public better informed and to open communication between the Police Department and the community we serve. We are so proud of how it’s turned out. Our page is employee controlled, so whoever wants to post does so on their own. Some believed that this practice would not work, and said, “you cannot let employees do that, it will cause problems”. Well, those folks were wrong, it has worked and we have not had any problems. We are constantly trying to come up with ways to improve our FaceBook page such as the addition of crime mapping and the media log links and will continue to work toward this goal. We continually feature stories and situations from our many in-house divisions such as Patrol, VIPS, Behind the Badge, Street Crimes, Housing Officer, Criminal Investigations, Call Stats and new employee introductions. Thank you to all the employees and to our fans who continue to make our Facebook site a success.

In closing, I learned this week of the passing of Phelps County Assessor Kevin Rasmussen. Kevin was always pleasant and showed a true compassion for his position and for the community he served. He will be truly missed. We will keep his family in our prayers.

Have a great week!

Chief Mark Kearse

Police Chief Chat

Drug Watch: The Rolla Police Department Street Crimes Unit arrested (6) six individuals last night following a traffic stop for a minor violation. During the stop, officers learned that the driver had just smoked marijuana and was driving under the influence. Further investigation led to the seizure of several new items commonly used to manufacture methamphetamine. All of the individuals admitted to coming to Rolla for the sole purpose of purchasing meth making materials.

Last week, Senior Patrol Officer Josh Campbell of the Street Crimes Unit and K-9 Ziggy conducted a sweep at a local parcel delivery service that resulted in the discovery of several ounces of high grade “medical” marijuana inbound to a residence on Vichy Road from the State of California. A search warrant was obtained and the marijuana was seized. A plan was then devised to use an undercover officer to impersonate a parcel driver and successfully deliver the marijuana to the suspect recipient. Once the suspect signed for the delivery, a search warrant for the residence was executed by Sgt. Jeremy Martens, Cpl. Tim Mayfield, Street Crimes Spo. Luke Kearse and Spo’s Brad Gibbs, Tony Lauth and Ben Tinsley. The search lead to the seizure of the marijuana, drug paraphernalia and the arrest of the recipient.

This past week, the Rolla Police Department handled 712 calls for service. Of these calls there were: 26 arrests, 10 alarm calls, 18 accident reports, 17 traffic complaints, 15 check the well being requests, 57 traffic stops, 18 disturbance calls (including domestics), 15 suspicious nature calls, 19 assists of other agencies, 6 narcotics violations, 40 security checks, 15 escorts, 32 follow up investigations, 2 runaways and 3 malicious mischief complaints. This call total is down 197 calls from last week, yet another busy week!

Early morning on Sunday, August 14th, 2011, The Missouri State Highway Patrol initiated a pursuit of a mini-van eastbound on I-44 in Pulaski County. The pursuit continued into the Rolla area where Cpl. Derrick Dillon set up and successfully deployed stop sticks at the 184 mile marker. Senior Patrol Officer Jason Copeland and Patrol Officer Chris Giacolone set up and successfully deployed stop sticks again at the 185 mile marker. The vehicle continued eastbound with the Highway Patrol officers and now Rolla Police officers in pursuit. The suspect vehicle exited I-44 and continued through Rolla to the area of 12th and Iowa where the driver abandoned the vehicle and fled on foot. Investigation revealed that the pursued vehicle had been stolen from a residence near Springfield, Mo.

Pursuing officers quickly set up a perimeter and Street Crimes Officer Josh Campbell and K-9 Ziggy was called to the scene in an attempt to track the suspect. Officers maintained the perimeter and continued to search for the suspect for the next hour without success. As Cpl. Derrick Dillon patrolled the area of 10th Street and Independence he observed a vehicle approach the intersection from the opposite direction and stop at the stop sign. Cpl. Dillon pulled up and stopped at the intersection as well. The driver of the vehicle across the intersection did not proceed as if waiting for Cpl. Dillon to go first. Cpl. Dillon became suspicious and continued to wait for the vehicle to proceed. The driver of the vehicle finally began to drive forward but seemed to have trouble getting the vehicle to move. Cpl. Dillon stopped the vehicle and noticed that the driver was perspiring and appeared extremely nervous. The driver of the vehicle also had what appeared to be a recent injury to his hand. Cpl. Dillon questioned the driver as to where he was from and where he was going. The driver provided information that did not make sense and was contradictory to the direction he was heading. The driver claimed to be from out of town, but a license check on the vehicle showed that the vehicle was registered locally. Cpl. Dillon suspected this driver to be the suspect in the earlier pursuit and took him into custody. Further investigation revealed that the second vehicle had just been stolen from a residence on Independence Drive. The suspect is being held in the Phelps County Jail on a $25,000.00 bond. The MSHP are continuing their investigation into the pursuit and stolen vehicle out of Springfield. Great job to all the officers involved in this incident.

Drinking and Driving: The sobering fact is that impaired driving contributes to nearly 30% of all Missouri traffic fatalities. In 2010 alone 234 people were killed and 957 seriously injured in crashes involving an impaired driver. That’s why the Rolla Police Department will join other Missouri law enforcement agencies to crack down on drunk driving Aug. 19 – Sept. 5, 2011. The Rolla Police Department will participate in statewide sobriety checkpoints and DWI saturation patrols enforcing Missouri’s DWI laws and keeping impaired drivers off the road. Consequences of drunk driving include jail time, loss of driver licenses, or being sentenced to use ignition interlocks. Insurance rates go up. Other financial hits include attorney fees, court costs, lost time at work, and the potential loss of job or job prospects. When family, friends and co-workers find out, violators can also face tremendous personal embarrassment and humiliation. “Driving drunk is simply not worth all the consequences,” said Corporal Tim Mayfield, Rolla Police Department Traffic Division Traffic Supervisor. “Our message is simple and unwavering: You Drink and Drive. You Lose.” For more information, please visit www.saveMOlives.com.

In closing, I would like to thank all of you for your consideration and patience while driving in traffic during our first days of the new school year. Our officers and VIP volunteers were assigned to patrol and assist with traffic control around all of the area schools this past week. There were no incidents reported and even with the new construction at the Junior High School and Rolla High School traffic flowed smoothly. Please continue to exercise caution in these areas and remember to show consideration at crosswalks and intersections as students travel to and from school. Speaking of crosswalks, I would like to take this opportunity to welcome our newest member to the Rolla Police family in the hiring of Duane Nevells as our crossing guard at Truman Elementary School. Duane began his duties this week and is looking forward to his duties at the school. Welcome aboard Duane. Be sure to say hello as you travel through the area.

Have a great week!

Chief Mark Kearse

Police Chief Chat

Drug Watch: On August 4, 2011, the South Central Drug Task Force, the Phelps County Sheriff’s Department and the Rolla Police Department Street Crimes Unit concluded a short term narcotics investigation in the 100 block of South Oak Street in Rolla, Missouri. Officers executed a search warrant at a residence and seized a quantity of high grade marijuana and drug paraphernalia. The following people were arrested in connection with the items seized and incarcerated at the Phelps County Jail: They are John C. Brewer II age 21 of Rolla, arrested for possession of marijuana with the intent to distribute. Melinda S. Crisel age 20 of Rolla, arrested for possession of marijuana. The charges for which Brewer and Crisel were arrested are merely accusations and are not evidence of guilt. Evidence in support of the charges must be presented before a court of competent jurisdiction whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

This past week, the Rolla Police Department handled 909 calls for service. Of these calls there were: 34 arrests, 28 alarm calls, 26 traffic crashes, 54 traffic complaints, 16 check the well being requests, 89 traffic stops, 24 disturbance calls (including domestics), 15 suspicious nature complaints, 27 assists of other agency requests, 4 narcotics violations, 53 security checks, 25 security and funeral escorts and 38 follow up investigations. This call total is up 223 calls from last week and yes as you can see, another busy week!

On Thursday, Senior Patrol Officer Ben Tinsley initiated a traffic stop on I-44 assisted by Street Crimes Officer Josh Campbell and K-9 Ziggy. Ziggy was deployed to check the vehicle for illegal drugs and paraphernalia. The consequential search resulted in the seizure of $35,000 in cash discovered hidden in various locations throughout the vehicle. The search also lead to the discovery of $12,000.00 in diamonds that was concealed in clothing in the vehicle. The vehicle was occupied by illegal aliens from Ukraine. No proof of ownership could be provided. This case was turned over to Immigration Customs Enforcement.

The Rolla Police Department and Advanced Management Techniques is proud to announce a Crime Free Multi-Housing Seminar to be held Wednesday, August 10th, 2011 from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm at the Centre at 1200 N. Holloway. This is a FREE seminar for rental property owners, managers, attorneys and security companies. This course is Phase I of the Crime Free Multi-Housing Program and is presented by the Rolla Police Department.

The program’s concept takes a multi-faceted approach to crime prevention. This course entails cooperation between law enforcement, property managers and residents. The Crime Free Program is a 3-Phase program that addresses all of the opportunities of crime in rental properties. The program has been in existence since 1992 and is being used in over 2200 cities in the USA, Canada and now Australia!

The Crime Free programs have shown up to 90% reduction in crime on properties, with the average being 40-55% reduction. Participating properties also have shown decreased operating costs, lower resident turn-over, and reduced exposure to premise liability lawsuits.

This course is Free to anyone associated with rental property. We will cover the following topics: Crime Prevention, Screening, Rental Agreements, State Law, Premise Liability Issues, Drug Recognition, Evictions and the Role of Law Enforcement. Join us and learn how to reduce crime, increase profits and upgrade your community. For more information contact the Rolla Police Department Housing Officer Brad Lewis at 308-1213.

• The Rolla Animal Shelter had an unannounced visit today Ms. Barbara Gray Schmitz, Missouri State Director of the Humane Society of the United States. She was in the area and wanted to stop by and tour our facility and see how we operate. The HSUS is basically an advocate to all of the animal shelters and animal control facilities throughout the United States. They rally for programs such as spay/...neuter clinics, disaster programs, vaccination clinics, animal education programs, and a multitude of other shelter and animal related programs. They also assist in any legal issues associated with animal control and animal shelters.

Ms. Schmitz truly admired our facility and commented on our professionalism and cleanliness. She stated that she was very impressed with our continued high adoption rates and our educational programs as well as our diligence in advertising our adoptable animals. The overall tour and visit went very well and Ms. Schmitz said that we were a very professional facility with outstanding employees and we make an exceptional shelter team. Animal Shelter Supervisor John Redshaw conducted the tour and stated the following: “we are only a small part which makes up the overall great team called the Rolla Police Department and we are all very proud and honored to be a part of the Rolla Police Department”.

Great job to our Rolla Animal Shelter team!!

Have a great week!

Chief Mark Kearse

Police Chief Chat

This past week, the Rolla Police Department handled 686 calls for service. Of these calls there were: 20 arrests, 19 alarm calls, 13 accidents, 25 traffic complaints, 10 check the well being requests, 78 traffic stops, 21 disturbance calls (including domestics), 13 suspicious nature calls, 16 assists of other agency requests, 5 narcotics violations, 55 security checks and 9 escorts. This call total is up 7 calls from last week. Yet another busy week.

Well we are now entering into our 3rd week of excessive heat warnings where temperatures have been close to or over 100 degrees on several consecutive days. We did have a somewhat severe thunderstorm right in the middle of the heat wave, and the temperature did drop to a comfortable 72 degrees, but then shot right back up over 100 as soon as the skies cleared. What this means to us is an increase in heat related calls such as to check the well being of the elderly that may live alone, or to check on children or pets left unattended in closed vehicles. The extreme heat and high humidity also taxes our officers who go right on patrolling and handling calls regardless of weather conditions. Wearing dark blue wool blend uniforms, protective vests and about 10 extra pounds of leather bound equipment while performing these duties adds to the discomfort. Fortunately our patrol cars are equipped with air-conditioning, so the time spent in the vehicles is somewhat comfortable. It is a proven fact that when the citizens in the community are uncomfortable and irritable due to weather conditions, our call volume increase, especially domestic dispute calls.

What the extreme heat means to you will vary depending on your situation. It may be as simple as staying home in the air conditioning enjoying a cold beverage and watching Oprah re-runs. For others it may mean that you need to start the car a few minutes before leaving for work or before going home to cool off the car. Still others may need to take special preparation to be able to deal with the severe heat while working outside. Construction workers, landscapers, painters, roofers and road crews will still need to work and perform their duties out in the sun and need to be prepared. Finally we have those that may be unable to leave their homes due to age, medical conditions or desire. Those folks may or may not have air conditioning and may or may not have family or friends to check on them. If you know someone in your neighborhood that lives alone, take just a few minutes to give them a call or stop by and make sure they are not in need of outside assistance.

Another staple of summer besides the heat is of course road repair. This is the time of year the street department takes to the streets and highways and begins repairing all the damage left behind by old man winter. This is the time for pot holes to be filled and curbs and sidewalks to be replaced. It is also a time when the city contracts with various paving companies to come in and pave streets and roadways according to scheduling. These crews are here now and will be moving from job site to job site paving streets. Please pay close attention to warning signs and watch for officers and flag men and women directing traffic. There will be times when changes in traffic flow will create a minor inconvenience but it is much better for all of us in the long run. Please be patient and try to avoid these areas when possible.

This past week, Senior Patrol Officer Josh Campbell of the Street Crimes Unit and Patrol Officer Steve Gray attended Title 19 Cross-Designation Training offered by Homeland Security U.S. immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The class is mandatory for officers who wish to become deputized through ICE. These credentials will allow officers who actively work criminal interdiction on the interstate additional assets and intelligence during their investigations. These officers may also be called upon during times of need to assist Homeland Security on additional investigations or emergencies in other geographical areas. The class was a mixture of policies and procedures put on by legal counsel and special agents from Homeland Security.

In closing, school starts in less than 3 weeks and we need to start using caution at school crossings, intersections and in residential areas. We will have a strong presence in those areas for the first few weeks of school. Help us keep the students safe.

Have a great week.

Chief Mark Kearse

Police Chief Chat

Drug Watch: Recently, I accompanied members of the South Central Drug Task Force to serve a search warrant on a house reported to be selling and manufacturing methamphetamine. We were joined by members of the Phelps County Sheriff’s Department and our Patrol Division. As we approached the residence, we observed a small child approximately 5 years old, in the front yard without adult supervision. One of the plain-clothes officers went to the child and picked her up to get her out of harm’s way. We entered the residence and discovered and adult male in the living room sleeping on the couch. We located another adult male and an adult female in one of the bedrooms of the residence. All 3 adults were secured in the living room of the home and officers initiated the search. The search netted methamphetamine, methamphetamine products and illegal drug paraphernalia.

The Division of Family Services was called and were able to locate responsible family members to care for the 5 year old juvenile. Just recently I had to deal with a situation where two children’s parents were addicted to methamphetamine and due to the neglect and the addiction, the parents lost custody of those children. Sadly these situations are occurring every day and those that suffer the most are the children. Rolla is a great place to live and raise a family, but we do have a problem with drug addiction here, just like every town in America, but we have taken responsibility and launched a specialty unit whose primary mission is to combat illegal drugs. This unit works hand in hand with the Phelps County Sheriff’s Department, the South Central Drug Task Force and our own Patrol Division to bring those that deal in these illegal poisons to justice. This unit is very unusual for a town our size, and we are very fortunate that we are able to support this unit. This unit is responsible for the indictment of suspects in over 50 Federal drug cases in the last two years, and several hundred other drugs cases where methamphetamine and meth labs were seized. The Rolla Police Department and other local law enforcement agencies are taking a strong stand to get those that deal in heroin, meth and other illegal drugs so that we can keep Rolla a great place to live. If you have suspicious activity that you think might be drug related call our confidential hotline number at 364-0111.

This past week, the Rolla Police Department handled 679 calls for service. Of these calls there were: 10 arrests, 17 alarm calls, 20 accidents, 21 traffic complaints, 65 check the well being requests, 66 traffic stops, 14 disturbance calls (including domestics), 16 suspicious nature calls, 23 assists of other agencies, 54 security checks, 16 trespass complaints, 7 destruction of property reports and 9 intoxicated persons. This call total is down 153 calls from last week and was a welcome break.

I would like to take this opportunity to welcome 2 new members to the Rolla Police Family. Telecommunicators Melissa Maddox and Keri Lloyd joined us this week to begin their extremely intense 15 week training period that will transform them from interested citizens to certified 9-1-1 dispatchers. The vacancies in Central Dispatch were created when veteran telecommunicator Trina Duarte moved to the State of California and Salem’s own Clint Capps was accepted in the Missouri State Highway Patrol academy. Melissa and Keri’s training involves hands on familiarization of Central Dispatch policies and procedures, M.U.L.E.S. operation, multi-tasking skill enhancement and radio techniques among many other features. Telecommunication Supervisor Stayce Smith will offer the brunt of the training but other supervisors and operators will assist. Melissa Maddox was born and raised in Rolla, then after graduation from Rolla High School, attended William Woods College where she graduated with a bachelor’ degree. Melissa lived in Columbia, Missouri 10+ years before returning to Rolla and accepting the challenge to become a Central Dispatch telecommunicator. Melissa enjoys photography and staying active outside with gardening and exercising, among other outdoor activities and animals. Be sure to welcome Melissa back to the community when you see her.

Keri Lloyd is the eldest daughter in a military family. Her father, who now works with Missouri Department of Natural Resources, is a retired US Army officer. His career took their family all over the world - everwhere except central Missouri, at least until he retired. Keri attended UMR in the mid-90s, and have been "here and back" to Rolla a few times, moving first to upstate New York, then to Minne"snow"ta. Professionally, I have worked for Military OneSource as an information specialist and provided tech support for Xbox (there may have been a few other jobs in there as well). Personally, I knit my own socks and slay internet dragons for fun. I am happy to be back in Rolla and am very excited to be training as a telecommunicator - it really does make a difference to my happiness to know that every day, I will have done something to help someone! Please be sure to welcome Keri back to the community when you see her.

The Rolla Police Department will be cracking down on impaired drivers during a sobriety checkpoint to be held July 24 through July 30. Law enforcement efforts will be increased in an endeavor to reduce the deaths and serious injuries caused by impaired drivers. Those caught drinking and driving could lose their license, money, and freedom.

Consequences of drunk driving include jail time, loss of your driver’s licenses, or being sentenced to use ignition interlocks. Insurance rates also go up. Other financial hits include attorney fees, court costs, lost time at work, and the potential loss of job or job prospects. When family, friends and co-workers find out, violators can also face tremendous personal embarrassment and humiliation.

In closing, as you know summer is upon us with a vengeance and our near record high temperatures this past week has dealt quite a challenge. Please remember to venture out into the heat only if absolutely necessary and if you must remain outdoors during this period, drink plenty of fluids. Also remember to think of pets and livestock as well as the heat affects them too. If you know of family members or friends that may reside alone be sure to check in on them periodically, and especially if they do not have air conditioning. Do not leave children and pets in vehicles unattended, as temperatures in sun baked vehicles reaches dangerous and fatal levels.

Have a great week!

Chief Mark Kearse

Police Chief Chat

            Drug watch: This past week, the South Central Drug Task Force, Rolla Police Department, and Phelps County Sheriff’s Department served a narcotics search warrant in the 800 block of South Highway 63 in Rolla, Missouri.  As a result of the search warrant, methamphetamine, marijuana, and drug paraphernalia were located and seized.  The following people were arrested and incarcerated at the Phelps County Jail as a result of the investigation: Jeannette E. Faulkner age 44 was arrested for possession of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute. Jimmy D. Seest age 50 was arrested for possession of methamphetamine. Jeremy S. Kirkpatrick age 30 was arrested for possession of methamphetamine. The charges for which Faulkner, Seest and Kirkpatrick were arrested are merely accusations and are not evidence of guilt.  Evidence in support of the charges must be presented before a court of competent jurisdiction whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence. 

            Also this past week, the Rolla Police Department handled 832 calls for service. Of these calls there were: 25 arrests, 18 alarm calls, 23 accidents, 23 traffic complaints, 15 check the well being requests, 115 traffic stops, 83 disturbance calls (including domestics – 62 of those are fireworks complaints), 15 suspicious nature reports, 16 assists of other agencies, 9 narcotics violation complaints, 60 security checks, 28 stealing reports and 17 escorts. This call total is down 17 calls from last week, but yet another busy week!

            On July 14, 2011, at approximately 1338 hours, Street Crimes Officer Josh Campbell was traveling eastbound on I-44 near the 182 mile marker. During this time, he overheard the Missouri State Highway Patrol, Troop I Dispatch, advise their officers of a possible child abduction. The location of the crime was in Arkansas, however; Troop I stated Arkansas investigators had cellular phone contact with one of the two children. The contact put the children’s location between St. Robert and Rolla, Missouri. Troop I advised the suspect vehicle was a black Mazda passenger car bearing West Virginia registration. Troop I also stated the vehicle would be occupied by an adult female a (12) twelve year old female and an (11) eleven year old male. According to Troop I, missing person’s alerts were entered into the computer for the children.

            At approximately 1339 hours, Officer Campbell observed the vehicle traveling eastbound on Interstate near the 182 mile marker following too closely to a tractor trailer. Campbell allowed the vehicle to travel some distance before pulling into traffic as not to alert the driver and in an effort to get more patrol units in the area before making the stop. At the east bound 185 mile marker, extra units staged out of sight and Campbell initiated a traffic stop.  The suspect pulled to the right of the roadway and came to a complete stop.  Campbell  made contact with the driver. The vehicle also contained a juvenile male and a juvenile female. Campbell advised the female driver of the hold request for child abduction from the State of Arkansas then transported her and the 2 juveniles to the Rolla Police Department.

            Once at the police department, contact was made with investigators from the Benton County Arkansas Sheriff’s Office.  Confirmation was made of pending warrants for the female’s arrest, and she was incarcerated in the Phelps County Jail on a (24) hour hold pending warrants from Benton County, Arkansas. The two minor children were released to the custody of The Missouri Department of Social Services Children’s Division.

            On Thursday,  Communications Chief Paula Volkmer attended the first meeting of the Interim Committee on 911 Access at the Missouri Capitol.  This committee was appointed in the Missouri House of Representatives to study the current 911 emergency service systems in the State of Missouri.  They heard testimony from the Missouri 911 Director’s Association and several others outlining the situation that Missouri has found itself in, being the only state in the nation that does not have a statewide 911 funding source.  Individual counties and municipalities have long shouldered the burden of funding 911 centers in their communities.  Most struggle under the mounting costs of increased call volumes and keeping pace with advancing technology that most citizens have come to rely on. 

            The majority of centers achieve their funding by initiating a surcharge on landline phones or a sales tax.  In today’s mobile society, the landline phone is dwindling, along with that the ability to support 911 equipment from a surcharge solely supported by land line phone customers. Twice, the voters in the State of Missouri have failed to approve a surcharge on cell phones/wireless devices that are currently averaging 60-70% of the 911 call volume in the centers across the state.  That, along with ever changing technologies, have created a funding crisis for most 911 centers today.  Our county is one of many that have been forced to turn away from the dwindling landline surcharge to implement a sales tax to cover the expense of operating a countywide 911 dispatch center.  Though our Phelps County community leaders have made proper receiving of 911 calls a priority, we are also faced with significant upgrades to our system to implement the necessary equipment needed in these quickly emerging technologies.  We are among the fortunate ones, there are several counties across Missouri who do not have adequate 911 capabilities due to lack of funding to support such a system.  The goal is to protect everyone as they live, travel and do business in Missouri by making funding available for every county to have access to 911.

            In closing, I would like to mention that due to vacations and a manpower shortage at the animal shelter we have found it necessary to temporarily adjust our hours of operation.

Beginning the 3^rd week of August, we will need to close the shelter on Saturdays which will be August 20, August 27, and September 3, 2011. We will resume opening on Saturdays on September 10, 2011. Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Have a great week!

Chief Mark Kearse