Gov. Reeves appoints longtime prosecutor as 12th Circuit judge

JACKSON, Miss. (VDN) — Gov. Tate Reeves has appointed Thomas Michael Reed of Hattiesburg to the position of circuit judge for Mississippi’s 12th Circuit Court District, which serves Forrest and Perry counties. The appointment fills the vacancy left by the retirement of Judge Robert B. Helfrich.

“Michael’s years of experience prosecuting criminals and trying cases will serve the 12th Circuit Court District well,” Reeves said in a statement. “Mississippi residents deserve a strong criminal justice system — that’s why I’ve appointed people like Michael. I know his expertise and experience will strengthen the 12th Circuit Court District. I thank him for what he’s done to uphold the rule of law and for his judicial service in the years to come.”

Reed has practiced law since 1998 and currently serves as a municipal judge in both Petal and Richton. He previously served as city prosecutor for both cities, handling thousands of misdemeanor cases including DUIs, drug offenses, and assaults. He has also tried dozens of felony cases to conclusion — including murder, rape, aggravated assault, kidnapping, and drug possession — in both state and federal courts.

Reed earned a Juris Doctor from the University of Mississippi and a Bachelor of Science from Mississippi State University.

His appointment begins July 1, 2025, and he will serve the remainder of the current four-year term.