JPD names Rusty Comer officer of the month

(From the Joplin Police Department)

We would like to recognize our February 2016 Officer of the Month, Officer Rusty Comer.

On February 28, 2016 around 0800 hours, Officer Rusty Comer was on regular patrol in an area around 1800 W. 7th Street, Guitars parking lot. When he arrived he noticed at least ten vehicles that had been broken into overnight. Officer Comer began the investigation by processing the vehicles. He was able to locate two vehicles that had blood on the inside and outside of the vehicle. Officer Comer believed the blood came from the suspects. Officer Comer was able to locate a blood trail from one of the vehicles and followed it. While walking the trail Officer Comer located stolen property from the vehicles and continued to follow the blood. The trail led to the neighboring motel, The Budget Inn, room 110. Officers made contact with the tenant of room 110, and identified her. Officers searched the female’s room on consent and discovered stolen property from the thefts from vehicles at Guitars and other theft from vehicle incidents.

At the end of the shift Officer Rusty Comer had contacted numerous victims of the thefts and property damage at Guitars. He was able to return many stolen items back to their owners. One of the largest impacts of the investigation was the fact that he was able to locate a bottle of stolen medication from one of the victims. The victim stated the medication was for her heart and if it had not been located she was going to go the emergency department. The female was arrested for felony receiving stolen property.

This incident was started by Officer Comer providing extra patrols during his shift. When he recognized that several crimes had occurred he took the time to investigate the situation. Because of Officer Comer’s actions and relentless follow-up, he was able to make contact with a potential suspect and recover stolen property.

Thank you Officer Rusty Comer for your professionalism, willingness to go above and beyond in investigating crimes, and your ongoing commitment to the City of Joplin.