Sheriff's Dispatch, March 20, 2020

Hello Benton County, It has been busy here since I spoke to you last, and that doesn't even include everything going on with the COVID 19 issue. I hope and pray this Sheriff's Dispatch finds you all well. We here at the Sheriff's Office and jail are taking a common sense approach, hand washing, hand sanitizer after contact, cleaning hard surfaces, etc....my hope is that, as a little time passes, we will be able to resume a normal life. If you are sick, especially our more mature citizens, and you need food or medicine picked up or delivered, and have no family to help, please call my Office and see if the Sheriff's Office can help you with your needs. (660-438-6135 or Dispatch at 660-438-5252)

I need to ask you to lock your home and your vehicles. We have had several stolen vehicles, with two of those being pursued by my staff that ended in the bad guy crashing and in custody. Henry County had a pursuit that ended in Sedalia with the death of an innocent. Counting the pursuit that came through our county from Henry, we have had seven pursuits so far this year! What you should know is the fact that fleeing from law enforcement in a vehicle, as dangerous as it is, is just a misdemeanor offence. House Bill (HB) 1620 modifies this crime, making it a felony with up to one year in the county jail. I have been at the Capitol fighting for and against legislation that would potentially alter our way of life if passed. HB 1620 is one that I'm fighting for, and I'm going to ask you for your help in getting it passed. Please contact your state representatives in the House and Senate and tell them you want it done. If you want to know the specific text of this bill you can find it at: https://house.mo.gov/billtracking/bills181/hlrbillspdf/4463H.01I.pdf

I want to let you know that I have made the decision to run for re-election. I have had many people question if I am running again, so I figured I better let you know from me, I am. I feel my work here is not done, but now does not seem like the right time to be talking about campaigns and accomplishments. I am very proud to be part of not only this counties law enforcement but it's wonderful first responder community. We are here to serve you today, and every day...and it's something I plan to continue doing with your support.

We have been adding quality staff to our ranks! I'm anticipating a full roster soon, with the candidates that have contacted me. We are only two short and will have those spots filled very soon! I am humbled by the quality of employees Benton County has in its ranks right now! These men and women (we have hired two more fantastic females) are dedicated to making Benton County a safer, better place to live.

Times right now seem uncertain, there is a lot of change in the area that can make everyone uneasy. I need to ask you to please be aware of your surroundings, be vigilant and watch out for your neighbor.  Over half of the arrests we make come from concerned citizens who get involved and call us when something suspicious is going on. If you see something, say something. Also please remember to look out for each other, how we get through this current situation depends largely on how we react to it as a community. Support each other, be smart.

Thank you for your overwhelming support,

Sheriff Knox