Mixed feelings on major case squad arrests, homicides

The Southeast Missourian reported last week that the Cape Girardeau/Bollinger County Major Case Squad made arrests in each of the five homicides that occurred in Cape Girardeau this year. Even with cracks in criminal cases, there is no celebration when lives are lost. There are, however, takeaways that this community can build on and utilize as we move forward.

The major case squad is doing good work. The downside, of course, is the need for that work. Though we are grateful that suspects have been apprehended, we are sad that the five homicides occurred at all.

Notably, the arrests were made with the help of people who reached out to law enforcement to tell what they knew. This speaks volumes.

"I get the feeling that people are opening up all over," said Felice Roberson, founder of the Stop Needless Acts of Violence Please group. "I'm glad people aren't feeling like they're snitching."

The fear of being a "snitch" is a longstanding issue because people either feel a sense of loyalty to others, are too afraid to come forward or simply do not trust the police. That last point is especially poignant in light of the tension that exists nationally between officers and citizens.

Cape Girardeau police chief Wes Blair understands the value of good relations between the two. Said Blair, "Securing arrests on these homicides is evidence that when working together as a community, we can take dangerous offenders off the streets." He highlighted the need for ongoing cooperation to battle gun crime in particular.

It is heartbreaking when even one life is lost, much less five. But when these tragedies occur, justice and safety are reliant on people sharing what they know with law enforcement, who are then able to do the tough investigative work. We are proud of citizens, police officers and, of course, the major case squad. As Blair said, "We are fortunate to have a major case squad with extremely talented and dedicated investigators from all the involved agencies. It is amazing to see them function as a team."