Hinds Today

U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) recently paid tribute to fallen law enforcement officers, including two from Mississippi, in commemoration of 2024 National Police Week. The tribute, which was entered into the Congressional Record on Thursday, specifically highlighted Madison Police Department Officer Horren Randal Tyler and Mississippi Bureau of Investigation Lt. Jeris Deon Davis.

Officer Tyler lost his life in June 2023 while responding to a hostage situation, and Lt. Davis succumbed to COVID-19 in December 2020. "My state of Mississippi is blessed with amazing law enforcement, who are not only hometown heroes but also an integral part of our communities. Every loss of an officer is deeply felt by all," Hyde-Smith said.

"As we reflect on the lives lost and the sacrifices made, let us recommit ourselves to supporting those who serve and protect us. Let us stand shoulder to shoulder with our law enforcement officers, offering them the respect, appreciation, and support they deserve," she continued. "I will continue to be an advocate for law enforcement professionals and provide support where possible, and do all I can to honor their sacrifice."

The names of Tyler and Davis have been added to the National Law Enforcement Memorial in Washington, D.C., as part of a Senate resolution cosponsored by Hyde-Smith that designated May 12-18, 2024, as National Police Week. The resolution encourages Americans "to observe National Police Week by honoring law enforcement personnel and promoting awareness of the essential mission that law enforcement personnel undertake in service to their communities and the United States."

In addition to her recent tribute, last year Hyde-Smith signed as an original cosponsor of the Back the Blue Act (S.1569), legislation aimed at increasing penalties for criminals who kill, threaten or conspire to kill federal judges, law enforcement officers or public safety officers.