JPD’s Captain Wolf talks Missouri Blue Shield designation

There are several reasons to be proud of local law enforcement, and the Joplin Police Department just gave the community another reason to add to that list.

The JPD recently earned the Missouri Blue Shield designation, which must be applied for and is awarded to communities who show a strong, ongoing dedication to public safety and the support of their law enforcement agencies.

“We had to show an exceptional commitment to public safety,” Captain Austin Wolf said to KZRG. “And by doing that, we had to show a collaboration of citizens with the Joplin Police Department and what we’re doing to enhance public safety in the city of Joplin.”

The designation affirms the commitment the JPD has to the Joplin community for its safety. The JPD’s involvement in Citizens Advisory Committee, the Community Policing programs and the newly-founded Co-Responder Unit as well as the new Flex Platoon that targets illegal drugs in the area were contributing factors to garnering Missouri Blue Shield designation.

“It does give some eligibility to grants for public safety, but again, you know, it’s a designation that affirms our commitment to public safety and the integration of new programs to address community issues and partnerships with our citizens and businesses and also collaboration with other law enforcement agencies,” Wolf said.