YELLOW SHEET Office of the State Auditor of Missouri Claire McCaskill

August 16, 2001

Report No. 2001-63

More felons could be arrested with data matches between the Highway Patrol and various state databases 

Missouri ranks in the top ten states for the total number of outstanding felony and non-felony warrants, according to federal authorities.  This audit reviewed how well various state law enforcement agencies manage the state’s approximately 728,000 outstanding warrants and determined system improvements to arrest more felons. 

Federal escapee found with data match 

Audit staff ran persons with warrants in the Highway Patrol system against at least 10 different state databases, including childcare vendors, school teachers and public assistance recipients.  Auditors found 15,761 felony warrants that matched among the data.  These matches often produced different addresses for the defendant, including a new location for a federal escapee.  Authorities arrested the escapee a day after auditors provided the new information to law enforcement.  (See page 5) 

Data tests noted illegal benefits payments to defendants 

State officials paid $672,640 in food stamps and temporary assistance to 802 persons with outstanding warrants, which violates federal law.  This figure represents individuals receiving benefits as of October 2000.  The Department of Social Services and the Highway Patrol are now setting up routine matches to share information on fugitive felons and public assistance recipients.  (See page 6) 

Revenue remains uncollected with outstanding warrants

More than $76 million could be collected from court costs, fees and fines if authorities served and adjudicated all current outstanding warrants.  Of the $76 million, $14 million could go to the state and $61 million could go to city and county officials.  (See page 12) 

Limited resources leave warrants unpursued

Outstanding warrants are not kept in one accessible, centralized system, but are housed in three main systems run by Kansas City police, St. Louis police and the State Highway Patrol. The three entities charge local law enforcement agencies usage fees to access warrant data.  In addition, the information on these systems is not always accurate or valid. Development of an accessible statewide system could reduce outstanding warrants and increase revenues.  (See page 12)

Complete Audit Report