The 158th Mississippi State fair begins Wednesday at the fairgrounds, and crowds will come from across the state to enjoy food, rides, music and much more. Also in attendance will be a large number of law enforcement officers to ensure the safety of fairgoers. Hinds County Sheriff Victor Mason met the media earlier today to discuss the security plan for this year’s fair.
Swat teams, undercover agents, reserve officers and county police officers will be a constant presence across the fairgrounds. The department will also receive assistance from few four-legged officers; Cash, Batman, Dunkin, Chance and Rio.
In light of the recent events in Las Vegas, Mason opened up on how the tragedy affected their plan and gave a strong message to those who have the intent to bring trouble to the family event.
“If we did anything, we beefed it up because if it happened in Vegas it can happen here. Same scene; it’s dark, concerts and if you could have some clown who doesn’t have enough to do in life, but we want to assure people that will be coming here, that you will be safe. We are pulling out all the stops,” Mason said. “Those who want to come down here and act crazy, we will deal with you, I promise you that, but we want the majority of people to come down and have a good time.”
Rick Reno, of the fair security team, is eager to get the fair underway and without providing specifics on the plan for the security team, he echoed the sheriff’s comments about safety being the number one priority.
The fair opens on October 4 and will run through October 15.
