Miss. Sheriff Promises to “Go After” Councilman Who Called for Violence Against His Officers

Ben Graham | January 6, 2016
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Sheriff Jim Johnson of Lee County, Miss., responded to remarks made by Jackson Councilman Kenneth Stokes, who recently said that he wanted the black community in Jackson to throw rocks, bricks, and bottles at police officers to “send a message” that the officers are not welcome.

Stokes told local news that he had had enough of surrounding jurisdictions putting residents in harm’s way while chasing suspects into his neighborhood, adding that it would send a stern message to officers who are tracking down young men for doing things like stealing bubble gum.

After receiving backlash for his comments, Stokes not only refused to apologize, but also doubled down on what some are calling “reprehensible” remarks.

“My position is this: When you have these police officers coming from other jurisdictions and they will not respect human life, then I said we should use rocks, bricks or bottles to try to get the message over. Stop endangering our children,” said Stokes.

Johnson said that in his 35 years of experience, he’s never seen such an outright threat to police officers. 

"The last thing you need from a councilman...is to promote hatred and promote violence against law enforcement. Sometimes that's the only fire that an individual needs for it to get out of control,” said Johnson.

"I can definitely tell you in Lee County that if any of my officers or myself are subjected to any type of harm in the way that Mr. Stokes said, not only are we going to look for the individual that did it, but I'm going after him as well," he added.

 

 

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