Sikeston DPS officers seek out those with warrants

SIKESTON -- Police departments across the nation are always working to bring wanted persons to justice.

The Sikeston Department of Public Safety is no different.

"Everyday, before our officers begin their shift, they are notified of new warrants that have just been issued for people in the area along with other important information," said Capt. Mark Crocker of DPS.

These warrants vary from more serious offenses to traffic infractions. For instance, court fines are often imposed instead of jail time for lesser offenses.

Too many times, Crocker said, people are allowed to make payments to the courts to make it easier on them to meet their legal obligations, then fail to make the required payments, which leads to warrants for their arrest.

As the holiday season approaches, DPS officials want to remind the public to fulfill any obligations they have to the legal system. Failure to do so may result in a visit from DPS.

During the holiday season, DPS attempts to have people make good on their promises to the courts with warrant roundups, a joint effort with other agencies.

The first comes near Thanksgiving, dubbed Operation Cold Turkey. "It is a warrant roundup that has occurred just before Thanksgiving the past two years to clear up some of the outstanding warrants accumulated through that year," Crocker said.

DPS also plays Grinch during the Christmas season through New Year's.

"This is really a time to enjoy the seasons and holidays that are coming on us quicker each year," Crocker said. "DPS wants all of you to be able to enjoy the holidays so you won't have to worry about a visit from one of its representatives.

"Unfortunately, we know that not all of you will be able to live up to your commitments, so as we do every year, we are contemplating plans to visit those who are going to be naughty and not nice during the upcoming holidays."

Crocker gave a word of warning to those with obligations to the courts to resolve them as soon as possible. "This will alleviate any unnecessary worry about being arrested during the holidays."