Page 69 - South Mississippi Living - July, 2021

1.
Q: What’s it like being a law officer in today’s environment?
A: It’s challenging and stressful. We have continuous training such as fire arms, CPR, work place harassment and diversity. We hear that police need more training, but I don’t know where policemen would find the time to do it. I feel that the Coast community does respect what we do.
2.Q: What is the biggest challenge?
A: Hiring new officers. Young people don’t want any part of law enforcement. It’s always been tough but tougher now. We’ve always had better pay and benefits here but it’s still hard. We used to get 200 applications but now we’re lucky to get 12. About three-fourths pass the agility test, then only eight or 10 pass the written test. After that we do background checks and that may reduce the number more.
3.Q: How can the public help?
A: Don’t speculate or jump to conclusions. Get the facts. We prefer you call us and ask if you want to know something. We’ve had body cameras for quite a while and we love it. People in the community can
4.watch the videos if they question something.
Q: What’s the best way to report suspicious activity?
A: Dial 911 but there’s also the tip line, Crime Stoppers and calling dispatch.
5.Q: What type of crimes are reported most frequently?
A: Property crimes are the most crimes committed, and that’s true all over the country. A lot are solved now with private video. The second biggest problem is dealing with the homeless. If we could control mental health, we would see less homeless people.
6.Q: How do the jurisdictions of city, county and state police differ? A: Municipal police have jurisdiction within their cities. The county sheriff’s duties are anywhere in the county, including cities. The state highway patrol has jurisdiction on all state and federal highways and connecting roadways.
7.Q: Do you have any advice for young people who may be considering a career in law enforcement?
A: It’s not for everybody but it’s rewarding. Don’t allow what you’re seeing throughout the country to cloud your opinion. You can sit down with us to talk about it, and you can do a ride along with a patrolman.
SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living | www.smliving.net July 2021 | 69