The Dexter Police Department would like to make a public service announcement that any property taken from the Stoddard County Gospel Mission located on One Mile Road in Dexter, after hours or without the consent of the business will result in prosecution for stealing. 

The general confusion is that when the property is dropped off at the business, it becomes “abandoned property”. However, this is not the case. Once the property is left voluntarily at the business, the Stoddard County Gospel Mission becomes the primary owner.

This charge is outlined in the municipal code manual under section 210.340 Stealing which states: A person commits the offense of stealing if he/she appropriates property or services of another with the purpose to deprive him/her thereof, either without his/her consent of by means of deceit or coercion. 

It should be noted that the business is equipped with video surveillance which is monitored by staff 24 hours a day.