Why do they ask so many questions when I call?
Dispatchers are trained to try to get as much information as possible to best determine the nature of the problem and its seriousness. On emergency calls, the dispatcher has already sent the information to the officer while asking additional questions.

Can I have the Sheriff's Department run a tag, check a driver's license, or see if there is a warrant for someone?
Absolutely not. Missouri regulations absolutely prohibit any police department from sharing information from the statewide MULES/NCIC computer system with other than law enforcment personnel. The department can be fined, and lose its terminal for violations of these regulations.

Can the Sheriff's Department open my car if I have locked my keys inside?
Because of the potential for damage to vehicles the Sheriff's Department does not open locked vehicles. A locksmith is your best alternative. If a child is locked inside the vehicle, the Fire Department will send a rescue unit to remove the child from the vehicle, possibly by breaking a window.

Someone has abandoned a junk car in my parking lot or on my property. Can the Sheriffs Department tow it away for me?
The Sheriff's Department can only have vehicles towed that are on public property. Call a wrecker service in your area and the vehicle will be towed away at no cost to you. The wrecker service will notify the owners once they have determined ownership.

How can I find out if someone is in jail, when someone in jail can be visited and any other information about persons in jail?
Feel free to call our office (883-5820) and ask for Lt. Joggerst or someone in the Detention facility, they will help you with the information you need.

What if I have a question about the status of my case?
Cases involving criminal acts which appear to have some basis of solvability are referred to a Detective for further investigation. To inquire about your case, call the Criminal Investigations Division and they will assist you with any questions you may have.

Can I make a police report at any time of day and do I need to make an appointment?
The Sheriff's Department will respond 24 hours a day, seven days a week to requests for assistance. The phone number for non-emergency assistance is (573)883-5215. If you have an emergency call 911.

Can I make a police report over the telephone or does a police officer have to come to my house?
Some reports can be taken over the telephone, however, most will require an officer to respond.

My friend or relative is overdue returning home. How can I find out if they were in a traffic accident?
The dispatch center does not have the names of persons involved in accidents available. If a person is injured in an accident and unable to call themselves, we will notify their family.

We have a problem with speeders in our neighborhood. What can we do about it?
Call the Sheriff's Department Patrol Division Commander at (573)883-5820 and request that this area be placed on selective enforcement.

Should I report suspicious activity in my neighborhood?
The Sheriff's Department depends on citizens calling to report crimes or suspicious activity. The Dispatcher who takes your call will ask questions about the activity to determine its nature and ask for descriptions of the people involved. You may be asked if an officer or detective may contact you but you may refuse contact and remain anonymous, if you wish.

How do I start a Neighborhood Watch Program in my area?
The Sheriff's Department is always eager to recieve assistance from the public. Neighborhood Watch is an important role in combating crime. Feel free to call Major Howard Dohack for all questions regarding the Neighborhood Watch program at
(573)883-5820.