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PRESS RELEASE

April 7, 2020 ​​

On March 15, 2020, an officer with the Wood River Police Department approached two individuals wearing surgical masks prior to them entering the Walmart store. The officer believed the two individuals to be acting suspiciously. The officer incorrectly informed the individuals that the Wood River City Ordinance prohibited the wearing of masks and requested their identification. The individuals refused and indicated they were leaving the store. The officer did not further pursue their identity and the individuals left the store of their own volition. Subsequently, the two individuals have filed a formal complaint with the Wood River Police Department.

The complaint is currently being investigated internally. In addition, I have contacted Mr. Andy Hightower, President of the Alton Branch of the NAACP, to assist with the investigation and will request a review of the incident by the Federal Bureau of Investigations (F.B.I) when the investigation is completed.

As Chief of Police, I want to publicly state the officer incorrectly informed the individuals that the Wood River City Ordinance prohibited the wearing of masks. This statement was incorrect and should not have been made. The city does not have such an ordinance prohibiting the wearing of a mask. In fact, I support the wearing of a nonsurgical mask or face covering when in public during the COVID-19 pandemic period.


While there continues to be requests for comments regarding this matter, there will be no further statements as this is an ongoing investigation. I want to reassure all citizens of the Wood River Community and visitors to our city that I subscribe to the principles of integrity, empathy, respect, and fairness. Moreover I expect the same of our police officers and together, we will continue to work with our community to solve problems.

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The Wood River Police Department is attempting to identify the female in the following picture. We understand that the photo is not the greatest quality, but if anyone has any information, please contact us at (618)251-3114.

Thank you!

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The Wood River Police Department Chaplain (Chappy) and members of the Police Department are partnering with Tammy Iskarous at Riverbend Family Ministries to collect new hats and gloves. Also new, or gently used, coats for kids in need in our community.

There are donation boxes located at the Wood River Police Department or Riverbend Family Ministries to drop off donations. Thank you!

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Today at 10:00 a.m. the Wood River Consolidated 911 Center will be conducting the monthly test of the Tornado Siren System. The system serves the communities of Wood River, East Alton, Roxana, Hartford, South Roxana, and Rosewood Heights.
The systems are tested on the first Tuesday of every month at 10 a.m.
Thank you!

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