Department of Public Safety News Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 26, 2014

State of Missouri to assist St. Louis County authorities in investigating arson, looting and vandalism in Ferguson

The Department of Public Safety today announced that Gov. Jay Nixon has directed the Division of Fire Safety and the Missouri State Highway Patrol's Division of Drug and Crime Control to assist St. Louis County authorities in the ongoing investigation of arson, looting and vandalism that occurred on Monday in the Ferguson area. In addition, the Missouri State Highway Patrol Crime Laboratory will expedite the testing of any evidence related to these crimes.
"These senseless acts of violence have been devastating to the city of Ferguson," said Missouri Department of Public Safety Director Dan Isom. "These criminals must and will be held to account for their actions."
The Missouri State Highway Patrol, the St. Louis County Police Department and the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department are operating as a unified command to protect public safety in the St. Louis region. In addition, the Governor has deployed the Missouri National Guard to support local law enforcement agencies.

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For more information, call 573-751-5432 or e-mail mike.oconnell@dps.mo.gov