Today, May 12, 2025, Stoddard County officially received Missouri Blue Shield designation from the Missouri Department of Public Safety. This prestigious honor recognizes Missouri communities that demonstrate a steadfast commitment to enhancing public safety and supporting law enforcement.
The Missouri Blue Shield Program, created by Governor Kehoe in January 2025 through Executive Order 25-03, recognizes local governments that 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 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 wya in making public safety a priority."
"The Department of Public Safety is proud to work alongside communities like Stoddard County, 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."
The Stoddard County Commission is proud to see Governor Kehoe create such a program to honor the communities who go above and beyond to support their law enforcement.
Stoddard County Sheriff Carl Hefner states, we are excited and honored to be involved with a State, local Government and Community who shows such support for our law enforcement. Without them we would not have the funding to meet our basic needs as law enforcement. The Missouri Blue Shield Program will bring public safety in Missouri to a new level of community relations and protection for our citizens.
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 will receive grant funding for law enforcement training and equipment as part of Governor Kehoe's Recommended Budget for the State Fiscal Year 2026. Communities will also be feature on Governor Kehoe's social media pages as well as the DPS website to highlight their participation in the program.
About Stoddard County
Stoddard County earned a Missouri Blue Shield designation due to its exceptional commitment to public safety. Through specific initiatives, such as officer recruitment efforts, major law enforcement funding, and partnerships with community stakeholders, the community has demonstrated a strong and ongoing commitment to protecting its residents. This designation affirms Stoddard County's effort to create a safer, more secure environment for all who live and work here.
