Missouri State Highway Patrol

Gaming Division - History

The Gaming Division of the Missouri State Highway Patrol was established on May 1, 1994. Under terms established by a memorandum of understanding, the Patrol’s Gaming Division works in concert with the Missouri Gaming Commission (MGC) to license and regulate constitutionally permitted gaming activities in the state. Officers assigned to the division conduct criminal and regulatory investigations, complete required background investigations, and provide public safety functions necessary to assist MGC in fulfilling its responsibilities.

The division is part of the Patrol’s Criminal Investigation Bureau and is under the command of Captain Andrew O. Tourney. The division is divided into Administrative Services, Investigations, Eastern and Western District Enforcement.

The Administrative Services Section, under the direction of Lieutenant Kevin J. Hunter, is responsible for administrative aspects of division operations, including supervision of Administrative Support Professionals and the property control supervisor, fleet management, training, criminal records, overtime, recruiting, personnel actions, and special projects.

The Sports Wagering/Investigations Section, under the direction of Lieutenant Shawn M. Griggs, conducts comprehensive background investigations of individuals and corporate entities seeking licensures from the MGC. Completed investigations are provided to the MGC to determine entities’ suitability for licensing. In addition to conducting background investigations, the Sports Wagering/Investigations Section conducts criminal and regulatory investigations related to Sports Wagering, Fantasy Sports, and Charitable Games.

Lieutenant Jody T. Laramore and Lieutenant Jeffery T. Fitzgerald direct enforcement operations in the eastern and western districts of the state. Officers assigned to the Enforcement Section conduct investigations into violations of Missouri Gaming Commission regulations and investigate and arrest individuals for violations of criminal law. Results of regulatory investigations are referred to the Missouri Gaming Commission for administrative action, while violations of criminal law are referred to the prosecuting attorney.

All four sections of the Patrol's Gaming Division are provided with clerical support from Administrative Support Professional Ms. Rachel M. Thowe and Administrative Support Assistant Ms. Stacy Slayton. Their responsibilities include processing criminal investigation reports and similar administrative tasks.

The Gaming Division’s proactive approach and collaboration with the Missouri Gaming Commission reflects a commitment to ensuring the integrity of licensed gaming activities and contributing to the safety of those who live in and visit the state.