New Houston Police Chief has big goals for the department

HOUSTON, MISS. (WCBI) – One of Chief Adam Harmon’s top priorities when he began his new role July first, was to upgrade the police department headquarters, which hasn’t seen any renovations in 20 years.

Harmon is third-generation law enforcement and served with the Chickasaw County Sheriff’s Department for 23 years before applying for the chief’s job.  He is the first appointed chief in Houston.

“I grew up in Houston, I was born here, probably one of the last ones actually born in Houston hospital, I wanted to serve my community, and make a difference.  I live here, have kids in the school system.  I wanted to make Houston a better place,” Chief Harmon said.

The chief says he will put more emphasis on community policing, and fostering closer ties between the public and police.

“Officers working with citizens, from football games to community events, we want to be part of the community,” Harmon said.

Recently, Houston has seen an uptick in crimes involving bogus checks, which start with online transactions.

To help cut down on those types of crimes, the chief will establish a Safe Trade Zone, in front of the police station.  It’s a place where people can meet to buy and sell different items.

“We are just asking everybody to meet at the safe zones, and if someone doesn’t want to meet you there, don’t meet,” Chief Harmon said.

A safe trade zone will also be set up in front of City Hall.

Chief Harmon has also hired six full-time officers, bringing the total number of officers for the city to ten, including a school resource officer.  The chief says he is enjoying putting his years of experience to work as Houston’s police chief.

Chief Harmon replaced longtime Chief Billy Voyles who retired at the end of June.