DPS Team Members of the Month
January Sworn Team Members of the Month
Robbie Sterner
Sergeant
Stephen Murphy
Investigator
Division of Fire Safety
January Non-Sworn Team Member of the Month
Latisha Koetting
Volunteer Services Coordinator
Missouri Veterans Commission
Sergeant Robbie Sterner and Investigator Stephen Murphy, of the Division of Fire Safety, are the DPS Sworn Team Members of the Month for January 2026 for their tireless work on a criminal investigation, which resulted in four arrests in connection with a large fire in Puxico, Mo.
On Feb. 8, 2025, a fire destroyed four commercial buildings and damaged two more properties in the southeast Missouri town of Puxico. Robbie and Stephen collaborated with the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives to identify a suspect and then followed numerous leads that led to an alleged criminal conspiracy that would ensnare two building owners and a local fire department leader.
Robbie and Stephen conducted interviews, executed search warrants, seized evidence and obtained surveillance video as they worked alongside federal investigators to build the case over months. Their careful investigative work showed the division’s commitment to solving a devastating crime in a small community that had lost much of its commercial base.
The charges, which were filed in October, are mere accusations and not evidence of guilt. Evidence in support of the charges must be presented before a court of competent jurisdiction whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.
Latisha Koetting, a Volunteer Services Coordinator with the Missouri Veterans Commission, is the DPS Non-Sworn Team Member of the Month for January 2026 for her exceptional efforts to support and improve the lives of veterans at the Warrensburg Veterans Home, where she has worked since August 2013.
Latisha makes it a point to get to know the names, histories and needs of every veteran who walks through the doors of the Warrensburg home. She’s also established strong connections throughout the veterans service community and utilizes these relationships to provide the best services possible for the home’s veterans.
What sets Latisha apart is her enthusiasm and all-in efforts to reach out and attract volunteers, in-kind contributions and raise funds for live music, Christmas gifts, special events, celebrations and other events to boost the spirits of the home’s veterans. Over the years, she has become an expert at organizing golf tournaments, 5K and 10K runs and other special fundraising events.
Latisha’s efforts also increase staff morale and set an outstanding example of public service for everyone who works in the Warrensburg home!
Congratulations to all the 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.