SUMMARY: The Biloxi Police Department launched its fifth annual Citizen’s Police Academy, offering participants a behind-the-scenes look at law enforcement in Harrison County. The program features classroom lessons, special unit introductions, K-9 demonstrations, patrol ride-alongs, and hands-on activities, with graduation in October. This year includes a new virtual reality taser training element. The academy aims to educate attendees on how various police units serve and protect the community, fostering understanding and support. Graduates often share their positive experiences, enhancing community-police relations. Lt. Candace Young emphasizes the program’s role in building a strong partnership between law enforcement and the community.

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SUMMARY: The Mississippi Department of Education released the 2024-25 Mississippi Academic Assessment Program (MAAP) results, showing mixed outcomes: some grade levels and subjects improved, but overall proficiency slightly declined. Proficiency rates were 54.5% in math, 47.4% in English Language Arts, 60.9% in science, and 69.7% in U.S. History. Pass rates rose for third-grade reading and all end-of-course exams. State Superintendent Dr. Lance Evans emphasized shifting focus from growth to proficiency to better reflect content understanding. The MDE plans to increase literacy and math coaching, seek legislative funding for initiatives, promote high-quality instructional materials, and enhance science of reading professional development.

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SUMMARY: The Picayune Police Department, led by Chief Joe Quave, is intensifying investigations into minor crimes to uncover drug-related offenses, significantly reducing drug presence in the community. By linking incidents like shoplifting to drug trades, they have executed effective search warrants and investigations. In 2024, there were 182 drug arrests and 58 equipment violations; by mid-2025, these dropped to 101 arrests and 29 violations. Overdoses also declined from 34 in 2023 to 13 so far in 2025. Quave credits the dedication of officers and collaboration with local and state agencies, including the Fentanyl Strike Force, for these improvements in combating drug trafficking and overdoses.

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