Law enforcement leaders gather at MCC to strengthen countywide collaboration
Around dining tables at Meridian Community College’s cafeteria, local law enforcement leaders from across Lauderdale County spent their lunches talking not about a single case or call, but how they can work together more effectively.
The gathering was part of the County Law Enforcement Advisory Roundtable, or CLEAR, a new monthly meeting that brings together agency heads from across the area, including the Meridian Police Department, Lauderdale County Sheriff’s Department, Mississippi State University, Meridian Public School District, local hospitals, the Town of Marion, and others.
“This is about keeping the lines of communication open,” said MCC Chief of Police Josh May, who hosted the group’s third session. “We all work closely in different ways, but we don’t always share information. These meetings help us break down those walls so we can better serve our citizens.”
Each month, a different agency hosts the roundtable. There’s no set agenda or formal presentation, just open discussion about issues, trends, and opportunities that affect public safety across the county.
“It’s really an information-sharing process,” May said. “Whoever hosts usually starts the conversation, but everyone contributes. The topics are open — communication, coordination, you name it. The goal is to keep talking and keep finding solutions together.”
Though the concept is new, May said CLEAR is already helping build stronger relationships and trust among agencies. “It’s a simple idea,” he added. “But sometimes sitting down together is the best way to make real progress.”
For more information, visit meridiancc.edu/campuspolice.