Anonymous statement raises objections to Burns, Curtis appointments

VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) — An anonymous letter sent to Mayor Willis Thompson’s office this week objects to the recent appointments of Larry Burns as chief of police and Tommy Curtis as deputy chief, citing concerns about certification, leadership history, and officer morale.

Because the letter was submitted anonymously and without supplemental materials, VDN could not verify the claims, the identity of its authors, or the number of people they represent.

Signed only as a “Statement from the Citizens of Vicksburg,” the letter urges the mayor to reconsider Burns’ appointment, raising concerns that his absence from law enforcement in recent years and past leadership style may undermine the department.

Among the claims made are that Burns is no longer a certified officer in Mississippi, that his return could reopen strained relationships within the department from his prior tenure, and that overlooking current officers for promotion may discourage morale. The letter also criticizes what it describes as the perception of “political favoritism” in the appointment.

“Several have already expressed intentions to leave, and with morale so low, others may follow—taking with them years of valuable experience,” the statement says. “At the same time, recruitment of new officers will be hindered, as candidates will be reluctant to join a department where advancement appears driven by favoritism rather than merit. No police department can thrive under such conditions, and Vicksburg should not be forced to accept these consequences.”

The letter also raises concerns about the appointment of Tommy Curtis as deputy chief: “It should also be noted that the newly appointed Deputy Chief likewise left law enforcement for multiple years to pursue another career. Together, these appointments place the top leadership of the department in the hands of individuals who chose to walk away from policing and are now disconnected from modern practices and the daily realities of Vicksburg.”

The statement concludes: “The City of Vicksburg deserves police leadership that looks to the future—not the past. Leadership should move the department forward, not backward.”

VDN has reached out to Mayor Willis Thompson’s office for comment and will continue to follow this story as more information becomes available.