Alderman Convicted in Harassment Case | Hattiesburg News

Lexington alderman Charles Earl Simmons was found guilty in absentia of stalking, harassing, and assaulting city employees, with victims including Deputy Clerk Brenda Powell, who said his behavior forced her to take anti-anxiety medication and led to security upgrades like tinted windows. He faces fines over $2,600, a 100-foot buffer zone around Powell, and strict limits on contact — all stemming from incidents this year that followed years of unresolved complaints, past lawsuits, and a federal probe into citywide harassment. Despite prior restrictions and formal complaints, the abuse continued until Powell filed an affidavit — highlighting how systemic retaliation and legal loopholes allowed the pattern to persist. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/00b597e93e610b5b