Dexter, Missouri - The ShowMe Times "Back the Blue" series will feature our local men and women in law enforcement. A healthy bond already exists between the Dexter Police Department and our citizens. The ShowMe Times hopes that you can get to know our local police force and they can share with you a little about themselves.
While a good relationship exists between the police and residents of Dexter the August 4th "Back to Blue" event will only enhance that relationship and build on the foundation of good will. Bottom line is that when police and law enforcement are appreciated and supported, they will only increase their commitment and desire to protect and serve.
Sammy W. Stone, Badge #911, is the Chief of Police at the Dexter Police Department. He has been with the Dexter Police Department for 31.5 years and has been a police officer for more than 35 years.
Why did you become a police officer?
“A friend of mine, who was an officer, talked me into applying. I knew on my very first day on the job that I was meant to be an officer.”
What do you like most about your job as a police officer and why?
“I like having the opportunity to give back to my city that has taken care of me through good and bad times.”
What do you like least about your job as a police officer and why?
“The helplessness I sometimes feel for the victims of crime. I think if I could just do more maybe an incident might not have happened.”
With the recent unrest in our country with regards to attacks on police officers would you still recommend policing as a career to others?
“Yes I would recommend becoming a police officer. What kind of country would we have if not for our laws and the law enforcement officers to enforce them? However, I fear for my officers and their safety.”
If you didn’t become a police officer what profession would you have wanted to join?
“I would have become a teacher and coach.”
Sometimes we forget that police officers have families. Sometimes on our darkest day a policeman is there for us. They are human too, they even feel your pain at times. They fish, they hunt, they attend church, and they spend time with their children and even grandchildren. They are human just like us and they have feelings just like us.
Sammy has been married for 26 wonderful years. He has five children and four grandchildren.
Thank you for keeping us safe!
