Lacey Baxter named Joplin Police Department Officer of the Month

(From the Joplin Police Department)

Officer Baxter is awarded May 2019 Officer of the Month:

Officer Baxter has been facilitating the Citizens Police Academy since 2012. On May 9, 2019 a graduation ceremony for the 51st class of the Citizens Police Academy was held.

Citizens that graduated from the program are constantly talking about how much they appreciate Officer Baxter. They talk about how enjoyable she makes the class for them and often she builds friendships that last beyond the end of the class. 

Not only did Officer Baxter make the Citizens Police Academy successful, but she has been single handily taking care of all the department’s crime free and public appearance events. 

Due to manpower shortages officers were pulled from the Crime Free program to help fill other needs throughout the department. Officer Baxter didn't get discouraged, but instead she remained focused and did what she had to do to keep the programs working.
I know we often give awards based on an action or an arrest, but we must remember that Officer Baxter is having a positive influence on the citizens that attend this program. These citizens in turn speak highly of the department and support our actions and missions.
Thank you, Officer Baxter for being a positive voice for the Joplin Police Department.

Respectfully,

Matthew Stewart
Chief of Police