JPD releases details of motorcycle safety enforcement
JOPLIN, Mo. — The Joplin Police Department is releasing the results from their recent 'motorcycle safety enforcement detail' that took place last week.
READ MORE: Two separate high-speed motorcycle chases in Joplin end with arrests in Kansas
In a release Tuesday, the department said the detail was conducted in the area with the purpose of reducing moving violations that often lead to crashes, and ensuring overall safety on roadways. The operation began on May 15 with help from the Jasper and Newton County Sheriff's offices, plus the Missouri State Highway Patrol.
Joplin police said MSHP's helicopter helps reduce the danger from a fleeing vehicle by allowing law enforcement to track the driver from a safe distance.
JPD's report included three instances on May 15 where a motorcyclist fled from officers attempting traffic stops, only to be arrested later:
15th & Main St.: JPD said Nicholas Peacock, 34, of Joplin was seen committing traffic violations by officers. When they attempted to stop him, Peacock fled. MSHP's helicopter observed Peacock drive west out of Joplin, into Carl Junction, and later Crawford County before he was arrested for felony resisting and careless driving. He also faces charges in Kansas.
7th & Sergeant Ave.: James Colley, 42, of Joplin was observed failing to yield at a stop and fled from officers attempting to stop him. Colley was seen entering Cherokee County from Joplin via helicopter and was soon apprehended. His vehicle was found to be stolen, and he was in possession of a controlled substance, police said. He faces multiple charges.
Zora & N St. Louis Ave.: Shawn England, 36, of Joplin failed to stop for officers and fled at a high rate of speed. MSHP relayed England's path into Newton County where he later crashed and was arrested for felony resisting and traffic violations.
The following was also released from the detail:
39 vehicle stops were conducted for observed traffic violations.
Three felony warrants, and three misdemeanor warrants were cleared.
Charges were submitted on two separate motorcyclists for possession of acontrolled substance.
One stolen motorcycle was recovered.
One stolen firearm was recovered.
A total of five charges submitted for felony eluding / resisting arrest.
13 citations were issued for hazardous moving violations.
Five citations were issued for driver's license violations.
JPD shared the following tips to help all motorists better share the road:
Do not speed. Obey all traffic laws and signage.
It is recommended to wear a D.O.T. compliant helmet and protective gear.
Consider adding reflective tape to make it easier for other drivers to see you.
Always keep your lights on, even during the day.
Don't assume drivers see you. Signal well in advance before changing lanes andwatch for turning vehicles.
Always check twice for motorcycles in your mirrors and blind spots.
Use your signal when changing lanes.
Never follow a motorcycle too closely. Always keep a safe distance.
When at an intersection, allow enough space before turning.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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