On January 3, 2025, at approximately 12:00 PM, Cedar County deputies responded to a report of a possibly armed and dangerous individual threatening to kill others. The reporting party (RP) advised that the subject, who had recently been released from prison and was reportedly under the influence of a controlled substance, was experiencing homicidal thoughts and making threatening statements.
The RP also reported a firearm missing from the residence, heightening the seriousness of the situation.
Sgt. Elder, accompanied by trainee Deputy Bryant, was the first to arrive on the scene, followed closely by Chief Deputy Clay Jeffries and Sheriff James McCrary. Upon their arrival, the subject fled on foot after spotting the marked patrol vehicle. Deputies immediately began searching the property, including over 12 outbuildings, but were initially unable to locate the individual.
Recognizing the need for advanced resources, Chief Deputy Jeffries deployed the Office's thermal-equipped drone to assist in the search. Undersheriff Lowe arrived to provide additional assistance. Using thermal imaging technology, the drone scanned the area for heat signatures, significantly enhancing the search's effectiveness. Shortly thereafter, Sheriff McCrary visually located the subject in a field south of the property.
Despite multiple verbal commands to surrender, the individual refused to comply and attempted to flee once more. Utilizing the drone to maintain visual contact, deputies tracked the subject until Sheriff McCrary and Sgt. Elder successfully apprehended him with the assistance of a Taser deployment.
Following the subject's apprehension, the Cedar County Sheriff's Office requested assistance from the Missouri Department of Conservation to utilize their tracking K9 in the search for the missing firearm. Despite an extensive search, no firearm was located in the areas the subject fled through.
The subject was transported to a nearby hospital for a injury to the wrist and was later transferred to a separate facility for a mental health evaluation. No injuries to law enforcement personnel were reported during the incident.
This incident underscores the Cedar County Sheriff’s Office's commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology, and rigorous training to ensure community safety.
Sheriff McCrary commended all personnel and agencies involved for their swift and coordinated response.
Chief Deputy Clay Jeffries
Cedar County Sheriff’s Office
Cedar County Sheriff’s Office
