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PRESS RELEASE: Sen. Dixon named Senator of the Year by Missouri Sheriff’s Association

JEFFERSON CITY – Today (8-3), the Missouri Sheriffs’ Association (MSA) recognized Sen. Bob Dixon, R-Springfield, for his legislative efforts to promote public safety by naming him 2015 Senator of the Year. The MSA Senator of the Year award is given annually to a Missouri senator who has demonstrated commitment and continued support of law enforcement. The award will be presented at the MSA’s 2015 annual conference.

“Every year, the Missouri Sheriffs’ Association recognizes legislators who have led the way on issues of importance to the citizens of Missouri and the law enforcement profession,” said Mick Covington, MSA Executive Director. “The sheriffs are pleased to recognize Sen. Dixon as this year’s recipient, not only for his work on the Revised Criminal Code, but also for his efforts to bring Missouri’s use of force statute in line with federal case law.”

Dixon
Dixon

During the 2015 session, Sen. Dixon sponsored legislation related to the use of force law, as well as bills related to state reimbursements for state prisoners being held in county jails and law enforcement mutual aid agreements. As Judiciary chair, Sen. Dixon has sponsored or handled numerous bills for the improvement of the criminal justice system, including:

  • The Revised Criminal Code, providing the first comprehensive update of the state’s criminal laws since the 1970s;
  • The renewal of a state program providing grant funding to local law enforcement task forces investigating Internet crimes involving children;
  • The extension of the Public Safety Officer Surviving Spouse Tax Credit program, to aid the families of officers whose lives were lost in the line of duty;
  • Updates to strengthen Missouri laws dealing with sex crimes and the prosecution of sexual predators; and
  • Improvements in the collection of restitution for crime victims.

“As the Senate Judiciary Committee chair, it has been my privilege to work with members of the Sheriffs’ Association to promote public safety,” said Sen. Dixon. “I am thankful for their dedication and tireless efforts to keep our neighborhoods and communities safe. Making certain they have the tools necessary to perform their duties remains a top legislative priority.”

In addition to the Missouri Sheriffs’ Association, Sen. Dixon has also been recognized for his work on criminal justice issues by numerous organizations, including the Missouri Association of Prosecuting Attorneys (2014, 2013), the Missouri Police Chiefs Association (2013, 2006) and the Springfield Police Officers Association (2007).

For more information on Sen. Dixon and his legislative work, visit his website at www.senate.mo.gov/dixon.