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As your District Attorney, I want to share an update on our efforts to maintain safety and uphold justice in DeSoto County.

This past July, our office worked tirelessly to safeguard our community, focusing on our core mission: protecting families and ensuring that dangerous criminals face justice. I’m proud to highlight a few recent achievements that underscore our commitment and the strong partnerships we’ve built with other agencies.

Your trust is the cornerstone of our work, and I am grateful for the opportunity to serve you and your family.

Prosecuting Violent Crime

Our office successfully secured convictions and significant sentences for Jaheem Cunningham and Aaron Corkill. Cunningham was sentenced for second-degree murder, while Corkill received a sentence for manslaughter. "Jaheem's admission of guilt and the severe sentence sends a clear message that violent acts in DeSoto County will not go unpunished."

Safeguarding our community from predators

This month, the Grand Jury resulted in 58 felony indictments against sex offenders and predators who failed to meet strict registration requirements set by state law, as a result of Operation Creep Sweep. “These sick individuals have demonstrated that they cannot be trusted to integrate freely into society.” - D.A. Barton

Securing convictions against illegal aliens

On July 22nd, our office convicted a 26-year old illegal alien, Baudilio Benedicto Perez Lopez, for his role in a tragic DUI-related crash that occurred on June 3rd, 2023. “This tragic and preventable incident highlights the severe consequences of driving under the influence; and the dismal failures of an open border.” - D.A. Barton

Defending those who protect us

This month, a DeSoto County Grand Jury indicted Colby Towles who is accused of shooting at Olive Branch police officers in March of 2024. “This indictment sends a loud and clear message: If you think you can get away with attacking our officers in DeSoto County, think again.” - D.A. Barton

Defending DeSoto County

As part of this months Grand Jury, an indictment was also issued for Memphis resident Guyland Key, 23, on charges related to a high-profile burglary at Guns and Fine Jewelry in Southaven on March 10, 2023. “If you come from Memphis or anywhere else to commit crimes in DeSoto County, we’re coming after you with everything we have.” - D.A. Barton

Standing with our partners in law enforcement

Our office is dedicated to supporting law enforcement partners in their efforts to combat crime. For the modern agency, that means continued training in an ever-changing and dangerous environment. Special thanks to Assistant District Attorney Gordon Shaw and Investigator Chad Gatewood from our team who led part of last month’s refresher class alongside colleagues from the Mississippi Highway Patrol.