Judges ask for more security at Stoddard County Justice Center

BLOOMFIELD, Mo. ­-- The Stoddard County Commission heard a request at its meeting Monday for additional security in the Stoddard County Justice Center.

Circuit Judge Rob Mayer told the commission Associate Judge Joe Satterfield, Associate Judge Steve Mitchell and himself had met recently to discuss additional security. He said they wanted to see a metal detector installed at the entrance to the justice center, some structural changes and a key card system installed on all office doors in the building.

"Our concern is not just for employees, but for all those who attend court proceedings," Mayer said. "At this time, that is all we are requesting."

Mayer said the judges would like to see a committee assembled to study security in the justice center and then make recommendations.

Commissioner Carol Jarrell noted Presiding Commissioner Greg Mathis had already visited the Dunklin County court building in Kennett, Missouri, to view their security features and systems. She said he was impressed, and all three commissioners had agreed to travel to Kennett to look at the security measures in place there. Mathis was not present at the meeting.

"It would be well worth your time," replied Mayer about visiting the Kennett building.

Mayer said that on court days, all public traffic into the justice center should be through the front entry on the west side of the building. He said a metal detector should be placed at the entry for all members of the public to pass through on their way into the building.

He said a key-card system into offices in the building would be much more secure for employees, rather than a key or punching numbers into a key pad. Mayer produced a key card he uses to access offices in the Dunklin County facility as an example.

Commissioner Danny Talkington said the commission previously had discussed further security features in the justice center, and agreed changes needed to be made. He said Satterfield had related the story of a man who entered the building with a gun, but removed it after asking whether guns were allowed in the justice center. Talkington noted there is a sign at the entry saying no guns were allowed.

Jarrell said it was unfortunate that it was necessary to put into place such safety measures, but with all the mass shootings and violence across the country, it was something that was needed.

"You just never know," she said.

Pertinent address:

Bloomfield, Mo.