Gov. Tate Reeves on Friday appointed Brad McCullouch as Hinds County district attorney to fill the vacancy left by Jody Owens, who resigned after pleading guilty in federal court related to the Jackson bribery scheme.
McCullouch, who has practiced law for more than 20 years, currently serves as the first assistant district attorney for the Hinds County District Attorney’s Office. His previous roles include special assistant attorney general for Mississippi and assistant district attorney in Texas and Mississippi’s Fourth Circuit Court District.
The governor’s office noted that McCullouch earned a J.D. from Mississippi College School of Law and a B.A. from Mississippi College. His appointment ensures continuity in the office as the community awaits a special election scheduled for Nov. 3 to fill the seat for the remainder of the term. The candidate qualifying deadline is Aug. 20.
Reeves stated that the majority of McCullouch’s career has been devoted to prosecuting criminals, highlighting his experience as a special assistant attorney general. The governor also noted that Senior Circuit Judge Winston Kidd temporarily appointed McCullouch to lead the office during the transition.
McCullouch’s appointment comes after Owens pleaded guilty to federal charges related to the Jackson bribery scheme that also involved former Mayor Chokwe Lumumba and Councilman Aaron Banks, among others. Reeves expressed confidence in McCullouch’s ability to maintain the integrity of the office until a new district attorney is elected.
Jon Ross Myers is the executive editor and publisher of the Mississippi News Network, Mississippi's largest digital only media company. He can be reached at editor@tippahnews.com
