Page 130 - South Mississippi Living - July, 2026

FINAL SAY
CAPTAIN CORINA
McSWAIN
As a young girl from Decatur, Georgia, becoming a police officer was never part of my childhood dreams. I did not grow up imagining myself in uniform or pursuing a career in law enforcement. In fact,
as a young woman, I once believed policing was not a role designed for women. It seemed to be a profession defined by authority and physicality, qualities that society often overlooked in women. However, as I matured into adulthood, I began to recognize a greater calling on my life—one rooted in service, purpose, and commitment to others. That realization ultimately led me to law enforcement.
My career began with the Hattiesburg Police Department before continuing with the D’Iberville Police Department, where I have had the opportunity to serve in an environment defined by high standards of law enforcement and strong, supportive leadership. For me, the mission became deeply personal. I was motivated by a climate of uncertainty and a noticeable disconnect between law enforcement and the communities they serve.
I also found inspiration from three important people in my life:
my late uncle, Warren Ray, retired California Highway Patrol; my father, Kenneth McSwain, United States Air Force veteran; and my brother, Corey McSwain, United States Army Commissioned Officer. Their service to others reflected honor, discipline, and impact. These influences fueled my desire to be part of the solution in the law
Operations/Patrol Division, D’Iberville Police Department
enforcement profession by bridging gaps, challenging stereotypes, and helping reshape how policing is experienced and understood.
As a woman in uniform, the aspect of simply showing up has challenged long-standing perceptions about who belongs in law enforcement. Representation has been a powerful and consistent theme throughout my journey. Even while focusing on the theme, I constantly remind myself that being a police officer is about more than the badge and representation.
At its core, policing is about protecting communities and maintaining order. Policing is about redefining narratives, standing firm in one’s values, and working toward substantive change within a complex system. This requires courage, not only in the face of danger, but in the daily commitment to fairness, integrity, and compassion. There is a constant balance between duty and perception, service and scrutiny, authority and empathy. This profession is grounded in responsibility, which embodies balancing strength with restraint and action with sound judgment.
Behind every uniform is a person, man or woman, tasked with making tough decisions, building trust within the community,
and upholding the values that keep society functioning. My understanding of these principles has helped shape the foundation of my career.
For me, becoming a police officer has meant more than choosing a career, it has meant standing up for the people and communities that matter most. It has meant being present in someone’s most difficult moments, offering reassurance, protection, and support when it
is needed most. Along the way, I have grown both professionally and personally, developing resilience, leadership, and the ability to connect with people from all walks of life.
While still on this journey, I pray my presence serves as encouragement to young girls and boys who may have never envisioned themselves in this profession and offers a sense of connection to those who have at times felt unseen, unheard, or underrepresented. I challenge those seeking a career grounded in purpose, integrity, and service to consider law enforcement. It is truly a rewarding profession that offers opportunities for personal and professional growth, and the ability to make a lasting impact within your community.
130 | July 2026
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