Governor Mike Kehoe has officially signed the bill into law that takes local control from the St. Louis Police Department.
"In Missouri we want it to be easier to be a cop than a criminal," Kehoe said at the signing in Jefferson City.
Within 30 days, a transition director will be appointed and within 90 days, a 5-person board will be assembled to oversee the St. Louis Police Department.
"We thank the Missouri General Assembly and the bill sponsors for prioritizing public safety and getting this legislation to my desk so quickly this session," said Governor Mike Kehoe. "In addition to establishing a citizen board to oversee the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department, HB 495 benefits law enforcement across our state with tools they need to crack down on crime and illegal immigration."
St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department Chief Robert Tracy has issued the following statement:"The brave men and women of the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department are fully committed to protecting and serving our community. Public safety remains our top priority. We will work with Governor Mike Kehoe’s Office and the Transition Director while maintaining the highest standards of excellence in policing and delivering quality service to our community."
Mayor Tishaura O. Jones issued the following statement: "From the very beginning, this bill has been a sham, and the Governor’s signature represents nothing but disrespect for every Missouri voter who supported local control,” said Mayor Tishaura O. Jones. “The residents of the City of St. Louis are safer today because my administration has made difficult and bold decisions that have resulted in a historic reduction in crime. State takeover is not based in reality, and only shows that Governor Kehoe and the legislature are willing to throw out facts, reason, and the will of the people in order to give the safety of our city away to special interests.”
Kehoe points out that the crime bill contains 24 other provisions aside from the city police portion. He'll do a ceremonial signing Thursday in
St. Louis.