Local News

A state audit found taxpayers likely paid between $13.8 million and $30.9 million in fiscal 2024 for children reported absent from Mississippi child care centers, with 20% of centers accounting for 90% of paid absences, the auditor’s office said.

Forecasters say the Midsouth will see moderate temperatures and lower humidity through Friday, with some locations reaching about 90 degrees and showers not expected until at least Sunday.

Organizers said Tippah Tumblers will hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 10 a.m. at 204 N. Commerce St. in Ripley and invited the public to attend.

The Tupelo Police Department said it is observing National Police Week 2026 and joined communities nationwide in honoring law enforcement. The department thanked its staff and remembered officers who died in the line of duty.

The Tupelo Fire Department said BNSF and Kansas City Southern will provide in-depth hazardous-materials training near the Mill district on the 12th, 13th and 14th. The department warned the public that heavy emergency vehicle presence and hazmat suits will be part of the exercises.

Meteorologists say there is a greater-than-60% chance of widespread 90-degree temperatures Saturday and Sunday. Forecasters urged residents to stay hydrated as the heat builds.

MDPS said it will hold its 2026 Fallen Officer Memorial at 10 a.m. tomorrow to honor officers who died in the line of duty. The department said the ceremony will be streamed live on its MDPS Facebook page for those who cannot attend in person.

Benjamin Coleman pleaded guilty to submitting fraudulent certification sheets to obtain unemployment funds, according to Mississippi State Auditor Shad White.

The Mississippi Department of Transportation said it is replacing six bridges along I-20 at the Hinds-Warren County line and nearing completion of three bridges on State Route 16/149 over the Yazoo River Floodway Channels.

The Booneville Police Department said it is marking National Police Week by remembering officers who died in the line of duty and thanking current officers and their families for their service.