Tatum Police Department

08/27/2026

We remain under a burn ban for both Rusk and Panola County.

All outdoor burning is extremely dangerous. Escaped fires will be destructive, fast moving and difficult to contain .

Outdoor burning, which is a violation of a court ordered burn ban will result in a fine.

PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE

DON’T RISK IT!

Today along with several other local departments we were able to help save someone’s house from a growing and quick spreading wildfire. We were able to get control of it rather fast but it doesn’t take much scrolling to see across the state and the country all of the news of how unfortunately that is not always the outcome.

This situation likely will get worse before better so please be vigilant, no burning, no throwing your cigarette butt out the window, nothing like that, please don’t take that chance; for us, for your community and for yourself.

08/24/2026

08/14/2026

Much of the state of Texas is under a burn ban due to extremely dry conditions. Rusk and Panola counties have both instituted a burn ban. Avoid all outdoor burning until burn bans have been lifted .

08/04/2026

Rusk and Panola Counties are both under a court ordered bun ban.

07/13/2026

The 100 Deadliest Days of Summer are here.

Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, Texas roads see an increase in serious and fatal crashes, many involving impaired drivers.

If you’re drinking, don’t get behind the wheel. Plan for a sober ride, designate a driver, or use a rideshare. One decision can save a life.

Texas Highway Patrol troopers are committed to keeping our roads safe, but we need your help. Make the right choice before you drive.

07/09/2026

A Tatum Police Department Officer responded to a residence inside the City of Tatum, in reference to a civil standby.

During the course of the call for service, it was determined that Kasha Annie Stephenson was wanted out of Gregg County for a probation violation / assault cause bodily injury.

Ms. Stephenson was placed under arrest and transported to the Rusk County jail.

Texas, Rusk County, STEPHENSON, KASHA ANNIE - 2026-07-08 mugshot, arrest, booking report

07/08/2026

Good morning!

Beginning Friday, July 10th and continuing through the weekend on Sunday July 12th, there will be an excessive amount of tractor-trailers on Crystal Farms road (CR 2187) and Flanagan Road (CR 2210). These tractor-trailers will be involved in oil field related work.

Rusk County Pct. 2 Commisioner Office and City of Tatum have permitted and approved this traffic plan.

In addition to the dates mentioned above, our Office has been notified that heavy equipment traffic will continue on these roadways, off and on over the next couple months.

07/08/2026

Tatum Police Department sends its condolences to this deputies family during this difficult time. God bless the Smith County Sheriff’s Office and its employees.

07/04/2026

🇺🇸 Happy 4th of July from the Tatum Police Department! 🇺🇸

Today is a day to celebrate our nation’s 250th birthday with family, friends, food, and fireworks. We want everyone to enjoy the holiday, but we also want everyone to make it home safely.

Remember:
🎆 Fireworks are legal in Tatum. Use them responsibly.
🚓 Save 911 for real emergencies only.
🍺 If you’re drinking, don’t drive. Drive drunk, go to jail. It’s that simple.

Have fun. Be responsible. Look out for your neighbors, and let’s make this a safe Independence Day for everyone.

Happy Independence Day, Tatum! God Bless America! 🇺🇸❤️🤍💙

07/03/2026

Enjoy our Holiday! Be safe with fireworks! Don’t drink and drive, we won’t tolerate it ! Call us if needed ..!