Video: Despite Vocal, Public Criticism, Law Officers Believe Support Strong Throughout NE MS

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BOONEVILLE, MISS. (WCBI) – Jackson City Councilman Kenneth Stokes is facing more criticism after his comments encouraging violence against police during multi jurisdiction pursuits.

North Mississippi law enforcement say the statements are symbolic of a distrust of police and those wanting to portray those behind the badge as the bad guys. WCBI’s Allie Martin has more.

Before administering the oath of office to 27 Prentiss County Sheriff’s Deputies, Judge Jim Pounds had words of encouragement for the deputies.

“In this day and time we have our problems in this country and you are the front line, and what you do and how you help folks and serve, and to protect, you have a very dangerous job, never let your guard down, anytime,” Judge Pounds said.

Prentiss County Sheriff Randy Tolar says he can’t recall a time in his 30 plus years in law enforcement when there has been as much vocal criticism
and backlash against police as there is now.

“Within the last couple of years, we have seen more and more of what you’re talking about there, the negativity toward law enforcement, my staff and
myself we do everything we can to improve relationship with minorities in our county and what we have to deal with on a daily basis,” Sheriff Tolar said.

Tolar believes the anti law enforcement sentiment began with the fatal shooting of 18 year old Michael Brown by a police officer in Ferguson, Missouri in August of 2014.

Since then, north Mississippi law enforcement say officers nationwide have been under the microscope and split second decisions are being analyzed for months.

Chickasaw County Sheriff James Meyers says it can be frustrating for law enforcement, but he also believes there are far more people who support those who protect and serve.

“Now, I think we have what is called a silent majority, that’s the way it is across the nation, the ones who seem to get the main press is the minority, and like several instances on tv, when something gets blown out of proportion and it turns out not to be what it is, then you throw it out there and it’s where it’s at,” Sheriff Meyers said.

Both sheriffs encourage their deputies to not allow inflammatory comments from public officials, or anyone else, to interfere with their work or their
safety.

A new class for would be officers starts next month at the North Mississippi Law Enforcement Training Center.