Sarcoxie Earns Missouri Blue Shield Designation for 2026

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The City of Sarcoxie has been recognized for its commitment to public safety, earning the Missouri Blue Shield designation for 2026 from the Missouri Department of Public Safety (DPS). The City received official notification on March 26, 2026.

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The Missouri Blue Shield designation recognizes communities that demonstrate strong support for law enforcement, meaningful investments in public safety, and active partnerships between law enforcement and the community. The program was established by Governor Kehoe in January 2025 through Executive Order 25‑03, and more than 200 Missouri communities earned the designation during its first year. Communities recognized in 2025 were required to reapply to maintain their designation for 2026.

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“The Blue Shield program has shown what’s possible when communities commit to prioritizing law enforcement and public safety,” Governor Kehoe said. “After awarding $50,000 grants to more than 200 communities last year, we’re continuing that work by welcoming new communities and renewing Blue Shield designations for counties, towns, and cities that remain committed to the program.”

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“Strengthening public safety and committing to joint law enforcement community – citizen safety efforts is what the Blue Shield Program is all about and the Department of Public Safety is honored to work with communities like Sarcoxie, that have answered the Blue Shield challenge,” said Mark James, Director of the Missouri Department of Public Safety (DPS). “Last year, the essential equipment provided by Blue Shield grants included 388 mobile data terminals, 351 body cameras, 151 license plate readers (LPR), 102 ballistic vests, 91 interoperable radios and 56 vehicles. We look forward to getting additional important equipment and training to our partners in local law enforcement.”

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“Here in Sarcoxie, we look out for one another, and this recognition truly belongs to the entire community,” said Sarcoxie Assistant Chief of Police Tanner Rice. “Living and working here, we don’t wait for problems to come to us—we work every day to stay ahead of them. Earning the Blue Shield designation again shows what’s possible when neighbors, local leaders, and law enforcement all pull together to keep our town safe, welcoming, and strong.”

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Communities earning the Missouri Blue Shield designation are eligible for grant funding for law enforcement training and equipment through Governor Kehoe’s recommended FY 2027 state budget, pending approval by the Missouri General Assembly. The proposed budget includes $10 million for the program, and participating communities will also be highlighted by the Governor’s Office and DPS.

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Sarcoxie earned the designation through its continued focus on proactive policing, early intervention, officer recruitment, and strong partnerships with local stakeholders—reinforcing the City’s commitment to maintaining a safe, secure, and welcoming community for residents and visitors alike.