The following information was provided by the City of West Plains.
West Plains, MO. – West Plains Police Department Chief Stephen Monticelli has announced his intention to retire in the spring of 2025, concluding a 40-year career in law enforcement.
Chief Monticelli began his career in 1980 with the University of Missouri Police in Columbia, where he served as a sergeant during his 11 years with the department. He then spent 21 years with the City of Columbia Police Department, where he held the position of Deputy Police Chief. His extensive experience includes 13 years leading major crime investigations, which established him as a respected leader in the field of law enforcement.
In 2012, Monticelli transitioned to the role of Police Chief in Harrisonburg, Virginia, before returning to Missouri in 2018 to take over the West Plains Police Department. During his time in West Plains, Chief Monticelli oversaw several major advancements within the department, including:
- The implementation of body-worn cameras to ensure greater transparency and accountability.
- The incorporation of new technologies to improve operational efficiency.
- A complete uniform and patch redesign to modernize the department’s image.
- The introduction of black-and-white patrol vehicles to increase visibility and community presence.
- The expansion of specialized teams to better respond to complex incidents.
- The addition of K9 units to enhance search capabilities, drug detection, and overall public safety.
- The establishment of a strong partnership with Missouri State University, which included the creation of a substation on campus and the placement of an officer residing on university property.
Chief Monticelli expressed his pride in mentoring the next generation of law enforcement professionals. “The most rewarding part of my career has been watching young officers develop into skilled and dedicated professionals. If I had the chance to do it all over again, I wouldn’t change a thing,” he said.
