Magee police chief urges restraint, says pranks don’t justify deadly force

MAGEE, Miss. (VDN) — In a series of statements on the Magee Police Department’s Facebook page over the weekend, Magee Police Chief Denis J. Borges is urging parents and residents to use caution and common sense as “rolling” yards — the tradition of covering lawns with toilet paper — picks up during the back-to-school season, warning that misunderstandings could lead to dangerous encounters.

Borges said he has received calls from residents in Magee and beyond asking whether it is legal to use a firearm on trespassers participating in the prank.

“While it is a crime to shoot someone simply for rolling a yard, that doesn’t mean it won’t happen,” said Borges. “Some people do not appreciate this tradition and may react in dangerous ways.”

The chief also took the opportunity to clarify Mississippi’s Castle Doctrine and self-defense laws, emphasizing that deadly force is only justified when a person reasonably believes they or someone else faces imminent danger of death or serious bodily harm, or to stop certain violent felonies such as armed robbery, rape or home invasion.

“Your response must always be proportional to the threat you face,” Borges said. “Non deadly threats require non deadly responses. Deadly force should always be a last resort, used only to stop an immediate and serious threat to life.”

Borges noted that Mississippi law also protects residents who face a deadly threat while in their home, vehicle or place of business, and that there is no duty to retreat in those situations. However, he warned that continuing to use force after a threat has ended could turn a lawful defense into a criminal act.

“Please avoid relying on hearsay or social media myths. Understanding the law is essential to protecting yourself within your rights, said Borges. “Please sign up for an enhanced conceal carry class with a reputable certified trainer.”

In a comment in the post addressing the Castle Doctrine a person stated “Stay off of people’s property without permission and teach your children to do the same and there shouldn’t be a problem.”

Borge agreed, but stated the point of the statement was to clarify the legal side of self defense.

“You’re absolutely right that respecting other people’s property and teaching our kids to do the same is an important part of preventing these situations in the first place,” Borge said. “My post was only meant to clarify the legal side of self defense and use of force so no one makes a decision in the heat of the moment that could cost them their freedom or someone’s life. Both sides of the issue matter, respecting property and knowing the limits of the law.”