Officers with Saint Joseph's Police Department were awarded the Medal of Valor from the Missouri Police Chiefs Association for actions taken March 27th.

That day, an armed carjacking turned to two people shooting out of the stolen car at officers.&nbsp; The actions of these officers stopped further harm, ensuring safety for nearby residents and other personnel.

In a release, Police Chief Paul Luster said, "I could not be more proud of these officers. In a moment where lives were at risk, they acted with bravery, restraint and an unwavering dedication to protecting our community. We are grateful for their service, their professionalism and their willingness to face danger so others don’t have to."

The Medal of Valor is one of the highest honors given to law enforcement in Missouri, recognizing those extraordinary acts in life-threatening events.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/5/1778092103331.jpeg" alt="Six of the Medal of Valor recipients/ Photo courtesy of the St. Joseph Police Department" />
 <figcaption>Six of the Medal of Valor recipients/ Photo courtesy of the St. Joseph Police Department</figcaption>
 </figure>By JIM FARISOfficers with Saint Joseph's Police Department were awarded the Medal of Valor from the Missouri Police Chiefs Association for actions taken March 27th.That day, an armed carjacking turned to two people shooting out of the stolen car at officers.&nbsp; The actions of these officers stopped further harm, ensuring safety for nearby residents and other personnel.The Medal of Valor recipients include:<ul>
 <li>Officer Derek Rice</li><li>Officer Jasmine Juares</li><li>Detective Nathaniel Stapleton</li><li>Detective Elliot Barton</li><li>Detective Justin McElroy</li><li>Detective Brandon Harrison</li><li>Detective Michelle Ritter</li><li>Captain Todd Derr</li>
 </ul>In a release, Police Chief Paul Luster said, "I could not be more proud of these officers. In a moment where lives were at risk, they acted with bravery, restraint and an unwavering dedication to protecting our community. We are grateful for their service, their professionalism and their willingness to face danger so others don’t have to."The Medal of Valor is one of the highest honors given to law enforcement in Missouri, recognizing those extraordinary acts in life-threatening events.

SJPD officers awarded Missouri Medal of Valor