DPS Team Members of the Month
May Sworn Team Member of the Month
Jackson D. Hood
Trooper
Missouri State Highway Patrol
May Non-Sworn Team Member of the Month
Markita Alexis
Registered Nurse
Missouri Veterans Commission
Trooper Jackson Hood, of Missouri State Highway Patrol Troop D, is the May DPS Sworn Team Member of the Month for his quick action to safely rescue a child who had been abducted from Texas by the prime suspect in a homicide investigation there.
On Jan. 31, 2026, Jackson heard radio traffic about a possible sighting of a suspect vehicle at an Ozark, Mo., convenience store that was part of an AMBER Alert. The vehicle, which had been stolen in Texas, was traced to Missouri through a License Plate Reader hit here. Jackson immediately responded to the scene. When he arrived, Jackson used his vehicle to block the driver from backing out of a parking space and quickly took the driver into custody. The four-year-old child, whose mother had been murdered, was located safe in the vehicle.
Jackson’s vigilance, professionalism and prompt action led to the arrest of a dangerous fugitive and the recovery of a kidnapped four-year-old, whose mother had just been murdered, within seven minutes of the AMBER Alert being issued.
The Department of Public Safety has named the Missouri Veterans Commission’s Markita Alexis as the May DPS Non-Sworn Team Member of the Month for the extraordinary care she provides veterans. A registered nurse, Markita routinely covers 12-hour weekend shifts, adjusts her schedule as needed, and helps fellow team members outside her work area to ensure veterans get high-quality care.
Markita joined the Cape Girardeau Home 18 months ago and immediately exceeded expectations through her veteran-centered care, compassion, empathy and technical expertise. Veterans adore her warm smile, gentle approach, and individualized care. Her professionalism and nursing skills not only lift morale and the outlook of veterans she cares for, they set an example for other care staff and help create a highly supportive environment throughout the home.
Markita’s dedication to her position and commitment to treating all with dignity and respect have helped set a standard of excellence in the Cape Girardeau Home.
Congratulations to both Team Members of the Month! You have set an outstanding example for your co-workers throughout the Department of Public Safety.
The Missouri Department of Public Safety. Many Missions. One Team.