08/13/2025
🚨Meridian police chief outlines safety initiatives, curfew plans in address to Rotary Club
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Meridian Police Chief Malachi Sanders outlined a series of public safety initiatives Wednesday during remarks to the Rotary Club, ranging from new technology and interagency cooperation to an upcoming citywide curfew.
Sanders said that while some violent incidents have occurred this summer — including a recent case involving a baby, which he said is close to being solved — the department’s goal is to make residents and businesses feel secure.
“I’m not the guy that sits on his hands,” Sanders said. “God gave me the motivation and the drive to do this job.”
The chief said the department has been using all-terrain vehicles for community policing, riding into business areas to speak directly with owners and managers. “We weren’t trying to promote anything with the ATVs,” Sanders said. “We want them to know anytime you need something, we’re right here.”
Sanders said he recently met with Lauderdale County Sheriff Ward Calhoun, and the two agreed to work together on public safety efforts. Although other agencies — including the City of Marion, Meridian Community College, Mississippi State University-Meridian and the Meridian Public School District — were not represented at that meeting, Sanders said all are expected to collaborate toward “one united law enforcement.”
He noted that joint operations with the sheriff’s department and Mississippi Highway Patrol last week included multiple roadblocks to increase police presence.
Sanders also highlighted new technology being incorporated into law enforcement, including a real-time crime center, gunshot detection systems, license plate readers and FDRs (forensic data recorders). “We have a lot of technology that’s open to us… innovation is key,” he said.
Sanders said an official announcement regarding a new title/position for Acting Captain Dareall Thompson will be made later this week. The announcement drew applause from the crowd as many community members have vocalized hope for a promotion for Thompson.
Sanders also confirmed that a youth curfew will take effect Sept. 1. From Sunday to Thursday, it will run from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m., and on Fridays and Saturdays from midnight to 6 a.m. Sanders said the start time could be moved up to 9 p.m. if violations are high.
On truancy, Sanders said he has spoken with Meridian Public School District Police Chief Parks about enforcing attendance for students who should be in school.
