NEWS RELEASE

For further information please contact: Capt. J. Tim Hull
(573) 526-6115
Q9086
September 12, 2008
EMPHASIS: Patrol To Recognize Ms. Shelley Tucker & Ms. Kacie Luetkemeyer

Colonel James F. Keathley, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, will recognize two Central Missouri residents for the roles they played in the recovery of a recently kidnapped 18-month-old boy. Col. Keathley will present Certificates of Appreciation to Ms. Shelley Tucker and Ms. Kacie Luetkemeyer at 1 p.m. on September 29, 2008, at the Troop F Headquarters, 2920 North Shamrock, Jefferson City, MO, prior to the afternoon troop meeting.

The recognition follows the actions of Ms. Tucker and Ms. Luetkemeyer after hearing about the kidnapping of Kenyon Brock, who was taken from his grandmother’s home by his non-custodial mother on July 29, 2008. The grandmother is the child’s legal guardian. A local Kansas City Amber Alert was issued and the Independence Police Department had contacted the Missouri State Highway Patrol to have a statewide Amber Alert issued. It was believed Brock’s mother would be traveling to the Holts Summit, MO, area, where she resides. Ms. Tucker, a local news director for the Zimmer Radio Group, became aware of the information and included it in her broadcast on Y107 (106.9 FM). Ms. Luetkemeyer heard the broadcast and then observed the vehicle and immediately contacted the Jefferson City Police Department by dialing 9-1-1. Ms. Luetkemeyer then followed the vehicle until officers arrived. After a slow speed chase, the child and mother were taken into custody without incident. The 18-year-old male driving the vehicle was taken into custody after a brief foot pursuit. Because of the actions of these two ladies, a young child was located unharmed before a statewide Amber Alert could be issued.

“Ms. Tucker and Ms. Luetkemeyer played an intricate role in the recovery of this abducted child,” said Col. Keathley. “The Patrol would like to recognize them publicly for going above and beyond what is normally expected of a member of the public. They are truly great citizens of Missouri.”

The public and the media are invited to attend this presentation and news conference at 1 p.m. on September 29, 2008, at Troop F Headquarters.
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