MISSOURI STATE HIGHWAY PATROL
a division of the
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

Troop D Headquarters, 3131 East Kearney Street, Springfield, Missouri 65803


News Release

For further information please contact: Sergeant Jason M. Pace
417-895-6868
D402015
November 19, 2015

EMPHASIS: Ninth Annual Corporal John A. "Jay" Sampietro Jr. Toy Drive Kickoff


Captain Juan Villanueva, commanding officer of Troop D, Springfield, announces the kickoff of the Ninth Annual Corporal John A. "Jay" Sampietro Jr. Toy Drive. The toy drive will begin on Friday, November 27, 2015, and will conclude on Sunday, December 20, 2015.

The toy drive is a cooperative effort between the Missouri State Highway Patrol, Krispy Kreme Doughnuts, the Children’s Miracle Network of Cox Health, and the citizens we serve. The toy drive is designed to brighten the holiday for children who are forced to spend the Christmas season in the hospital. Troopers will personally deliver all donated toys to children in the Cox Health Pediatric Unit in Springfield on December 22, 2015.

Toy donations may be made at the Springfield Krispy Kreme Doughnuts location, 3860 S. Campbell Avenue, Springfield, Missouri. Anyone who donates a new, unwrapped toy valued at $10 or more will receive a free dozen original Krispy Kreme glazed doughnuts in exchange. Toy needs include coloring/activity books, board games, Hot Wheels, action figures, age appropriate DVD movies, small handheld electronic games, Legos, art supplies, blocks, or infant toys. This toy drive is in remembrance of Corporal John A. "Jay" Sampietro Jr., who died in the line of duty in 2005. His death has left a huge void in the lives of his family, friends, and co-workers.

Captain Villanueva states, “This toy drive has proven to be a great way to honor Cpl. Sampietro's memory. The Patrol is honored to participate and to bring a little bit of joy and happiness to sick children who are in the hospital during the Christmas holidays."

Approximately 63 percent of Missouri fatal crash victims who are required to be restrained are NOT at the time of the traffic crash. The Patrol urges motorists to protect themselves and their passengers by making sure everyone in the vehicle is properly restrained in a seat belt or child restraint. Join us in supporting the Drive To Zero Highway Deaths. Watercraft operators should ensure that everyone in the vessel is wearing an approved life jacket. Click It 4 Life And Wear It!!


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