Department of Public Safety News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 14, 2018
Capitol Police had also changed the look of their vehicles’ graphics the week General Assembly adjourned in May
Missouri legislators who returned to the capitol for this week’s veto and special legislative session found Missouri Capitol Police officers in new uniforms that dramatically differentiated them from other officers. Their old uniform was very similar to the one worn by Jefferson City Police officers.
“I believe the new uniforms give us a fresh, professional look that’s unique to Missouri Capitol Police and allow us to stand out and be recognized for what we do,” Capitol Police Chief Mark Maples said. “The new look also means the public and state employees will be able to more readily identify and differentiate our officers from other officers who may be visiting the Capitol and Capitol Complex.”
Capitol Police switched from their traditional solid, dark blue uniform to gray pants with a blue stripe on the outside pant leg and black shirts on June 15, 2018. Capitol Police officers also used to be able to wear a black polo shirt with the Capitol Police insignia and black tactical pants. Those casual uniforms are also out.
On May 15, 2018, the week the regular legislative session adjourned, Capitol Police had completely overhauled the look of their patrol vehicles, changing to modern style that features both the Missouri state seal and the Capitol Police department logo. The vehicles’ distinctive markings make them stand out compared to the previous design, which simply featured a Capitol Police logo on the two front doors of the vehicles. The new design also includes the Capitol Police Facebook page on the rear bumper to raise awareness of Capitol Police’s use of the social media platform. The Facebook page is facebook.com/MoCapitolPolice/.
“Our goal is visibility and connecting with the people we serve,” Chief Maples said. “Our officers are trained to be approachable and to interact as much as possible with the public. Making sure their vehicles stand out and promoting our Facebook presence help strengthen the relationship.”
Missouri Capitol Police is the primary law enforcement agency for the Capitol Complex, as well as other state buildings in Jefferson City, patrolling the buildings and grounds 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
To see images of the new uniforms and vehicles, go to the DPS Flickr page at: flickr.com/photos/missouridps/.
For more information, call 573-751-5432 or e-mail mike.oconnell@dps.mo.gov