Jackson Police Budget Battle | Hattiesburg News

Jackson’s City Council is locked in a heated debate over the police department’s budget, with Chief Dr. RaShall Brackney pushing back against proposed cuts, insisting staffing must rise to 275 officers for public safety — and calling a $5 million slash “unworkable.” While the city’s initial offer sits at $32.9 million, the Chief laid out alternatives to find savings without compromising operations. Meanwhile, Councilman Kevin Parkinson of Ward Seven wants to boost funding to $36 million, citing last year’s actual spending. No final vote was taken — the discussion continues at a special session on August 21, 2026. 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/0f0445e7879142e9