NEWS RELEASE



DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY



For more information, please contact:

Terri Durdaller

Communication Director

(573) 751-4819



RE: Legislation Gives Capitol Police Expanded Authority To Make Arrests



JEFFERSON CITY –The Missouri Legislature has given final approval to HB 487 that would allow Capitol Police officers to arrest violators anywhere in Cole County who threaten the safety and security of state government.



"This meaningful legislation allows us to better protect government officials and state workers by extending our protection throughout Cole County in dangerous situations," said Todd Hurt, chief of Capitol Police. "This legislation in no way changes our mission, it merely enhances it."



The legislation now goes to Gov. Matt Blunt for his consideration.



Previously, Capitol Police officers only had jurisdiction on state owned or leased property, which severely hindered the officers ability to investigate crimes affecting Missouri state government and placed undue burdens on other local law enforcement agencies.



The Jefferson City Police Department and the Cole County Sheriff's office supported the measure, claiming it would reduce workload by reducing the instances that they were called upon to assist Capitol Police because of their limited jurisdiction.



The bill also extends power to Capitol Police officers to execute crimes that occur in their presence while on duty.