New Mississippi house bill targets shoplifters

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Southaven’s Mayor says a new law is sending a message to criminals and making them think twice about coming to Desoto County.

A message from Southaven Mayor, Darren Musselwhite back in August reigns true today.

“If you think you’re gonna come down here and kick in glass at retail centers and burglarize these cars and then just run back to Memphis thinking that we won’t chase you – we are about to change that for you,” Mayor Musselwhite said.

This law passed on shoplifting targets thieves in Mississippi with tougher penalties and jail time.

“This one just makes a clearer path to jail time which sends a stronger message to shoplifters,” he said.

Mayor Musselwhite says Mississippi’s House Bill 438 has now been signed into law by Governor Tate Reeves making shoplifting a felony when the value of items exceeds $1,000 or after the third offense of $1,000 or less.

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“It’s just prompted from what has around the country with the smash and grabs. We just want to be sure we get out ahead of this issue and send a strong message that if you come to Desoto County we’re not gonna turn a blind eye to that,” the Mayor said.

It’s the latest effort to crack down on crime altogether which Musselwhite says won’t happen on his watch or in his city.

Last year, Southaven started Operation Close the Door by sending more officers to the Stateline and boosting the police budget.

“At this point, if you want to run we are going to be at the state line waiting for you,” Mayor Musselwhite said.

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