(From the Missouri Department of Public Safety)The Missouri Department of Public Safety has officially awarded the Joplin Police Department the Blue Shield designation — a distinguished recognition for communities that show strong, ongoing dedication to public safety and the support of their law enforcement agencies.
The Missouri Blue Shield Program, created by Governor Kehoe in January 2025 through Executive Order 25-03, recognizes local governments which make significant efforts to reduce crime, foster law enforcement collaboration, and build strong community partnerships for public safety.
“Public safety is the foundation of a thriving community and state. It affects everything from families feeling secure to businesses having the confidence to invest and grow,” said Governor Kehoe.
“We designed the Missouri Blue Shield Program to recognize communities that go above and beyond in creating a place where people want to live, work, and build their futures. A Missouri Blue Shield designation is a testament to the hard work and dedication of local governments across Missouri who are leading the way in making public safety a priority.”
“The Department of Public Safety is proud to work alongside communities like Joplin that have shown exceptional dedication to enhancing public safety,” said Mark James, Director of the Missouri Department of Public Safety (DPS). “This program is about fostering collaboration between local law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve. Our goal is to support these efforts, providing resources and guidance to help communities build sustainable, long-term solutions for crime reduction and public safety.”
“We recognize the commitment of our police officers to ensure the safety and well-being of all citizens through proactive patrols, community engagement, and emergency response,” said Joplin Mayor Keenan Cortez. “This is a great honor to receive this designation from our State officials and will provide opportunities for grant applications focused on funding for law enforcement training and equipment.”
“The Department of Public Safety is proud to work alongside communities like Joplin that have shown exceptional dedication to enhancing public safety,” said Mark James, Director of the Missouri Department of Public Safety (DPS). “This program is about fostering collaboration between local law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve. Our goal is to support these efforts, providing resources and guidance to help communities build sustainable, long-term solutions for crime reduction and public safety.”
“We recognize the commitment of our police officers to ensure the safety and well-being of all citizens through proactive patrols, community engagement, and emergency response,” said Joplin Mayor Keenan Cortez. “This is a great honor to receive this designation from our State officials and will provide opportunities for grant applications focused on funding for law enforcement training and equipment.”
Eligibility and Program Details
Communities are eligible for a Missouri Blue Shield designation based on their dedication to reducing crime, making substantial investments in public safety, and developing strong collaboration with law enforcement agencies and community stakeholders. Each participating community’s commitment will be reviewed annually to ensure continued alignment with the program’s goals.
Participation Incentives
Communities that earn a Missouri Blue Shield designation provides access for grant funding for law enforcement training and equipment as part of Governor Kehoe’s Recommended Budget for the State Fiscal Year 2026. To highlight their participation in the program, communities will also be featured on Governor Kehoe’s social media pages and the DPS website.
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