The DeSoto County District Attorney’s Office is touting a record number of indictments during the month of July.
According to a news release, over 500 felony crimes have been indicted by the grand jury under “Operation Clean Sweep.” The initiative was implemented to remove criminals off the streets while also eliminating Southaven’s backlog of cases from previous administrations.
“This is the highest number of indictments in a single grand jury for this office,” District Attorney Matthew Barton said. “These unprecedented figures underscore the county’s growth and stand as a testament to the unwavering dedication of our law enforcement officers, detectives, and my team in ensuring swift justice and safeguarding our community.”
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Barton did note that the record number of indictments will result in increased trial dockets. He hopes the work being done by the justice system in DeSoto County will not go unnoticed and local and state leaders will supply further resources in the future.
“This marks a significant milestone for our office,” Barton continued. “However, it will inevitably result in increased trial dockets, placing strain on our justice system, staff, and facilities. I hope local and state leaders take note of these figures as part of any future deliberations regarding funding for prosecutors, judges, and the possibility of a new justice system complex.”
The individuals indicted during the record month range in age from 18 to 70 and are connected to crimes that include child abuse, auto theft, assault, and more. The release also noted that one undocumented immigrant was indicted in July. That specific case was not expounded.
