Chip Root named Joplin Police Department Detective of the Year

(From the Joplin Police Department)

2016 Joplin Police Department Detective of the Year is Detective Chip Root.

Detective Chip Root is currently assigned to the Southwest Missouri Cyber Crimes Task Force (SMCCTF) and Internet Crimes against Children (ICAC) Taskforce. 

Det. Root works as a Joplin Police Department Detective as well as being assigned as a FBI TFO. Det. Root’s regular duties involve investigating JPD cases as well as those assigned to him through ICAC and the FBI. 

Det. Root is also the only Joplin Police personnel who is a certified polygraphist.
In 2016 Det. Root investigated 31 cases involving the possession, distribution, or manufacturing of child pornography. 

During these investigations, eight of the cases were plead and 1 went to trial. During this period Det. Root submitted 8 cases for Federal Prosecution and all 8 were accepted. Det. Root conducted 32 polygraphs and was involved in or headed-up serving 33 search warrants. 

Many times, law enforcement officers are the last line of defense for children. Det. Root has a passion for the work he does and continues to do an outstanding job protecting these victims. Det. Root is an asset to the Joplin Police Department and the citizens he serves. 

For these reasons and many more not mentioned Detective Chip Root is Detective of the Year 2016. Congratulations Detective Root on receiving this award and thank you for your hard work, dedication and service to the Joplin Police Department and citizens of Joplin.