Lee Sheriff Joins Growing List Of Stokes Critics

TUPELO, MS  (WCBI) – Lee County Sheriff Jim Johnson is the latest to weigh in on Jackson City Council member Kenneth Stokes controversial statement about police officers and police pursuits.  Below is Johnson’s statement released today

First of all I want to say, as an elected official you are a voice for all the people you represent.
When I first saw the statement by Jackson City Councilman Stokes, I thought it was a hoax. I thought no one in a position such as that would make such a ludicrous statement. I then saw a report of the Jackson news and heard the statement when they interviewed him.
I would be embarrassed as a citizen of his district, to know that his opinion of law enforcement would result in such a comment. I hope everyone will take time to view the complete unedited interview of this councilman and form their own opinion.
I am very concerned as a law enforcement officer that anyone would make a direct threat and publicly provoke others to take violent actions against officers who serve their communities day in and day out. In my 35 year career in law enforcement, I have never seen the profession be subjected to such criticism. I know that I chose a profession that is subject to many opinions, however the comments made by Councilman Stokes are reprehensible for anyone to make, even more so for a person in a position of leadership who should be fostering a positive relationship with others who serve the public and seek to keep them safe.
I know several sheriffs, along with Governor Bryant, have contacted Attorney General Hood for his opinion on whether there is any criminal action that could be taken for the threat made by this councilman. I personally contacted the FBI to ensure they were aware of the statement and encouraged them to investigate any federal law that may have been violated.

Finally, I also reached out to the sheriff whose department could be directly affected by this councilman’s comments. I offered any assistance we could give that could ensure the safety of the citizens in that area. I want to assure you that we will stand together to protect the citizens of our respective jurisdictions and the state of Mississippi, and we will not be intimidated by the comments made by the councilman.
Respectfully
Sheriff Jim H Johnson

Categories: Local News

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