Cape Girardeau police clarify details of new first responder law
KBSI FOX23 News at 9 p.m.
CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo., (KBSI) — The Cape Girardeau Police Department has corrected information previously released about new state legislation protecting first responders.
In an earlier statement, police cited Missouri Senate Bill 669 as the legislation enacting Missouri Revised Statute 574.207. The department said the statute was in fact enacted through House Bill 225.
The law creates the offense of interference with a first responder and makes changes from earlier proposals. The required distance was revised from 25 feet to 20 feet, and language regarding causing emotional distress was replaced with a prohibition against “a course of conduct directed at a first responder which serves no legitimate purpose.”
Violations are classified as a Class A misdemeanor.
“We sincerely apologize for the misinformation previously provided to our community,” the department said in a statement. “For the most accurate details, please refer to RSMo 574.207 on the Missouri Revisor of Statutes website.”
Cape Girardeau Police Chief Wes Glueck said the statute provides important protections for police, firefighters and emergency medical personnel while ensuring the department continues to uphold citizens’ rights.
The department encouraged residents to remain aware of the change in law. For more information, call the business line at 573-335-6621, submit tips anonymously at 573-339-6313, or text “CAPEPD” to 847411.
