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Let’s hear it for the ladies! VPD welcomes four female officers
Vicksburg Police Department swears in four new female officers at the Board of Mayor and Aldermen meeting held Monday.
VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) — Vicksburg Police Department welcomed four new female officers to the force at the Board of Mayor and Aldermen meeting held Friday, July 10.
VPD Chief Larry Burns addressed the crowd and explained their oaths to become officers was only the beginning of their journey.
“This is a very difficult job at times, but it’s a very rewarding career,” said Chief Burns. He also encouraged everyone present to support the new officers and encourage them in their journey.
Vicksburg Mayor Willis Thompson swore in all four candidates, Andreya McGee, Jyla Williams, Ashley Barnes and Jimika Dixon.
Following their oaths, Chief Burns addressed the new law enforcement officials to report to the police department for shifts to begin.
According to the National Policing Institute women make up approximately half of the U.S. population but only about 12% of police officers.
Research by the institute suggests that women receive fewer complaints, draw their firearms less, and are less likely to use excessive force. They are perceived by their communities to be more honest and compassionate, and we frequently see better outcomes for crime victims, especially sex crime victims, when female officers work their cases.
