Columbia Mississippi Police Department

05/29/2026

UPDATE! Both juveniles have been found safe!!!

MISSING AND ENDANGERED CHILDREN!!!

Aiden Johnson and Taleigha Johnson were last seen in the area of Broadmoore Avenue at around 430 pm. They were last wearing black jackets, blue jeans and Grey joggers. If you have any information on where they may be please call 911 immediately.

05/12/2026

Join us as we honor the brave officers who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our community, while standing in support of the families and loved ones they left behind. Join us on the Courthouse lawn.

05/03/2026

PLEASE avoid the Pearl River Bridge on HWY 98 due to an accident with serious injuries.

CHOOSE AN ALTERNATE ROUTE.

04/24/2026

Reminder: The DEA take back is tomorrow from 10-2

04/13/2026

In honor of National Animal Control Appreciation Week and National Dispatcher Appreciation Week we would like say THANK YOU for the job that all of ya’ll do!!!!

04/12/2026

UPDATE

After further investigation and contact with Forrest County Sheriff’s Office, the juvenile that was the victim of kidnapping in Maryland has been found safely!!!

🚨 Columbia Police Department Press Release 🚨

On April 11, 2026, while conducting proactive patrol, Sgt. Tolar and Officer Burch initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle for a speeding violation. During the stop, the driver was identified as Celso Galvez Morales. Further investigation revealed that Morales was a fugitive wanted out of Maryland on kidnapping charges. He was taken into custody without incident. A 4-month-old child present at the scene was safely turned over to the Mississippi Department of Child Protective Services.

As the investigation continued, officers determined that Morales’ girlfriend, Laura Ignacio Martinez, was also wanted out of Maryland on kidnapping charges.

On April 12, 2026, Sgt. Tolar and Officer Burch located and apprehended Laura Ignacio Martinez without incident.

Both individuals are currently being held pending extradition to Maryland.

“Incidents like this highlight the importance of proactive policing and thorough attention to detail. We commend Sgt. Tolar and Officer Burch for their dedication and professionalism,” - Chief Fortenberry.

All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

03/31/2026

Today, in honor of Child Abuse Prevention Week, the Columbia Police Department, Marion County Sheriff’s Office, the 15th Judicial District Attorney’s Office, and our community partners came together to plant pinwheels as a symbol of hope and protection for the children in our community.

Each pinwheel represents the children we serve and our continued promise and commitment to protect them, support them, and stand up for those who may not always have a voice. Working together, we can raise awareness and help create a safer future for every child.

Thank you to everyone who took part in this meaningful event and for the work you do every day to make a difference. 💙

03/26/2026

Juvenile has been located and is safe.

Thank you to everyone who shared the post.

03/21/2026

Prom Night Traffic Advisory

Attention Columbia residents and visitors:

In support of Columbia High School’s prom activities, please be advised of the following temporary road closures:

Church Street will be closed between Wildcat Way and Branton Avenue beginning at 6:00 PM. Motorists are encouraged to utilize alternate routes during this time.

Main Street will be closed between 2nd Street and Courthouse Square from 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM to accommodate prom photography.

We respectfully ask all drivers to remain alert, exercise patience, and prioritize the safety of our students throughout the evening.

Let’s work together to ensure a safe and memorable prom night for everyone.

02/09/2026

Must be certified Law Enforcement for the SRO position! Stop by the Police Department to pick up an application.

🚨 NOW HIRING: School Resource Officer – Columbia, MS 🚨

The Columbia Police Department – School Safety Division is actively recruiting certified law enforcement officers to serve as School Resource Officers (SROs) across our school campuses.

This is not just another assignment — this is a mission-critical role where you will help protect students, build trust, and positively influence the next generation.

🔹 What You’ll Do
• Maintain a safe and secure school environment
• Serve as a mentor and positive role model
• Respond to incidents and support crisis prevention
• Work alongside school administrators and families

🔹 What We Offer
✔ Full medical, dental & vision insurance
✔ State retirement
✔ Take-home vehicle (within 25-mile radius)
✔ Professional growth & specialized training

🔹 Requirements
• Must be a certified law enforcement officer
• Must pass background, physical fitness, medical & psychological evaluations

📍 Apply in person:
Columbia Police Department
205 Second Street
Columbia, MS 39429

🔗 View the full job posting here:

https://www.indeed.com/viewjob?jk=864fc90c350e96bb

If you’re ready to lead from the front and make a measurable difference in the lives of students, this is your moment to step up and serve.