Alleged crimes often shared to social media but not reported to the local police

SIKESTON — Several posts by local women circulating on social media in recent weeks have claimed a man was following them in the Sikeston Walmart.

A few individuals have shared and posted stories to warn people about the man and even informed Walmart managers about him.

However, according to Sgt. Tyler Rowe, public information officer for the Sikeston Department of Public Safety, no reports have been made to DPS as of Friday, Sept. 6. But he encourages women and children to stay safe.

“As of right now, we haven’t had any reports of it, but we have had stuff like this happen in the past where people go to social media straight away when something like this happens,” Rowe said.

He continued: “The biggest thing I can say with something like that is to immediately report it to us so we can investigate it and ensure the general public’s safety.”

Rowe emphasized the importance of all citizens being constantly aware of their surroundings. 

“The first thing I always tell people is if you’re out and about and you feel like somebody is following you, stay in a well-populated area,” Rowe said. “So if you are in Walmart, for example, contact an employee or manager and inform them.”

Rowe said photographing the suspect is always encouraged, as is calling local authorities. 

“Always try to make sure you are with other people and you’re not isolated and alone,” Rowe said. “And if you are scared to walk out to your vehicle, call local authorities and have an officer come figure out who it is and have the officer walk you out to your vehicle.”

According to Rowe, parents should ensure that their children are always with them.

Rowe said if anyone is ever in a situation where they believe they need to defend themselves, they have the right to do so. 

“You have the right to protect yourself,” Rowe said. “There are self-defense options women can look into or they can buy pepper spray and stun guns.”

Rowe continued: “Another thing I tell people all the time is if they don’t have pepper spray or a stun gun; they can put a key in the palm of their hands between their thumb and index finger to have a sharp object.”

Rowe said he strongly encourages anyone who sees something to report it and contact DPS or their local law enforcement agency.

“I understand the first thing people want to do is go to social media with stuff, but we also want people to call us when it does happen originally, so we can start that investigation and we can try and locate those people who are being suspicious and following someone in a store,” Rowe said.