The teenage suspect behind a series of car thefts in Excelsior Springs is still on the move, with police connecting him to more stolen vehicles even after his arrest. As the juvenile court system weighs its options, frustrated residents wonder if justice will be served.
Excelsior Springs residents may notice a familiar face back on patrol, as Officer John Miles returns to the police department alongside two new recruits, Joey Leasiolagi and Andrew Burkhalter. With a focus on community connections and teamwork, all three officers say they’ve found a home at ESPD.
Police blotter, Fire Calls, and EMS Runs for Excelsior Springs, Missouri, as well as Clay County Sheriff, Ray County Sheriff, and Missouri State Highway Patrol, reports for February 2, 2025. Remember, all parties are innocent until proven guilty.
Ray County Sheriff Gary Blackwell has identified Joshua Dawson as the suspect involved in the hours-long standoff in rural Ray County on January 31, 2025. Dawson, who had multiple felony warrants, refused to surrender for several hours before law enforcement deployed chemical munitions, forcing him to exit the home and be taken into custody.
