JEFFERSON CITY, MO – Today, as his first official act in office, Governor Mike Kehoe took decisive action to prioritize public safety by signing six executive orders and officially launching his comprehensive Safer Missouri public safety initiative.
Developed in close collaboration with law enforcement partners and representatives across all levels of law enforcement within the state, the Safer Missouri plan sets the stage for immediate and impactful action. The measures introduced today represent the first steps in a comprehensive, multi-phase plan that focuses on reducing crime, supporting law enforcement, and fostering community partnerships to achieve lasting change.
Further steps requiring General Assembly action are slated for implementation in the coming weeks, with additional details to be unveiled during Governor Kehoe’s 2025 State of the State address.
“By standing with the brave officers who protect us every day and implementing strategic, forward-thinking measures, we are working to make Missouri a safer place to live, work and raise a family,” said Governor Kehoe. “In the coming weeks, months, and years, my administration will be relentless in our pursuit to make Missouri a place where it’s easier to be a cop than a criminal.”
Governor Kehoe was joined by Attorney General Andrew Bailey, Acting Director of the Missouri Department of Public Safety Mark James, and leaders from statewide law enforcement associations, including the Missouri State Fraternal Order of Police, Missouri State Troopers Association, Missouri Police Chiefs Association, and the Missouri Sheriffs Association.
“I applaud Governor Kehoe for taking action less than an hour after being sworn into office,” said Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey. “Today is a bold move toward restoring law and order, backing Missouri law enforcement as they protect our families, and reaffirming our commitment to obtaining justice for victims.”
“Governor Kehoe’s actions reflect his unwavering resolve to enhance safety and security in Missouri,” said Mark James, Acting Director of the Missouri Department of Public Safety. “These executive orders will equip law enforcement with much-needed resources and support to effectively address crime.”
Exercising his constitutional authority, Governor Kehoe enacted the following measures:
Executive Order 25-02 establishes “Operation Relentless Pursuit”, a regional anti-crime effort that emphasizes intelligence-led policing and cross-jurisdiction collaboration in order to collectively pursue and apprehend dangerous fugitives. The strategies employed in this enforcement initiative will include:
- The designation of full time Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) Division of Drug and Crime Control (DDCC) investigators within each of the nine troop regions; and
- Allocation of budgetary funds to support one new deputy sheriff within each MSHP troop who will be dedicated to task force operations, including targeted operations against criminal activities.
Executive Order 25-03 launches the Blue Shield Program to recognize local governments for their dedication to effective law enforcement and community safety. A Blue Shield designation highlights initiatives that enhance public safety, strengthen support for law enforcement and build lasting partnerships with the community. Issuance of the Blue Shield designation enables law enforcement agencies to access specific state grant opportunities.
