Sheriff

Sheriff Ruth Ann Dickerson

Sheriff Ruth Ann Dickerson is a 35-year veteran of the Cape Girardeau County Sheriff's Office, dedicated to serving and protecting the community since 1983.

Career & Leadership

1986 - Earned Missouri POST Law Enforcement Certification, becoming a certified officer.
Progressed through the ranks from Civilian â†’ Deputy â†’ Sergeant â†’ Lieutenant â†’ Captain of Business Operations.
Served as Captain of Business Operations for 23 years, overseeing:
- Daily operations of the Sheriff's Office.
- Budget management and grant writing.
- Supervisory duties & law enforcement responsibilities.
Member of the Cape Girardeau/Bollinger County Major Case Squad, now serving on the board.

Impact & Achievements

Secured millions in grant funding, enhancing public safety through:
- COPS Grant - Added Patrol Officers to the county.
- VAWA STOP Grant - Provided an Investigator specializing in Domestic Violence, Rape, and Assault cases.
- Additional equipment and resources for law enforcement.
Pioneered the first full-time School Resource Officer (SRO) in a local district in 2018, addressing growing safety concerns in schools.

Awards & Community Involvement

First recipient of multiple Timothy J. Ruopp Outstanding Law Enforcement Awards (1986 & 2008).
Active in community service, serving on multiple boards and committees.
Lifelong Cape Girardeau County resident, devoted mother, grandmother, and outdoor enthusiast.
Enjoys camping and spending quality time with her husband, family, and friends.

Sheriff Dickerson's dedication to law enforcement and her community-driven leadership have left a lasting impact on Cape Girardeau County.