JPD Officer of the Month Josh Cahoon collared suspect in theft of catalytic converters

(From the Joplin Police Department)

Officer of the Month

Officer Josh Cahoon

On September 15, 2020, Officer Josh Cahoon followed up on information provided by detectives involving a stolen vehicle being used to steal catalytic converters.

During his follow up, he discovered the stolen vehicle located at an apartment complex in the city.

Officer Cahoon observed people inside and around the vehicle at the time he approached the vehicle.

The main suspect involved with the stolen vehicle and other thefts was observed by Officer Cahoon exiting the driver's seat of the stolen vehicle.

The suspect saw Officer Cahoon and began to flee from him on foot through the apartment complex and into an adjoining field.

Officer Cahoon was able to apprehend the suspect as other officers arrived in the area to assist.

The vehicle was confirmed to be stolen from Shannon County, Missouri and was recovered. The suspect was arrested for tampering with a stolen vehicle in the first degree, violation of a protection order and resisting arrest. Further investigation led detectives to serving a search warrant the following day and solving numerous cases involving thefts of catalytic converters.

Officer Cahoon is new to JPD, but he is a veteran officer. In his short time here, he has made an impact with his skill to seek and find the criminal element.

In this case, his actions were part of a team effort with detectives that solved criminal activity that has been plaguing the city for months.

Officer Cahoon's efforts have been, and currently are, an asset to our police department.

Thank you, Officer Cahoon for your service, hard work and dedication to our profession and the citizens we serve.

Sloan A. Rowland

Chief of Police