HATTIESBURG — Mayor Toby Barker and Police Chief Hardy Sims on Tuesday announced pay raises and new recruitment efforts aimed at strengthening public safety in the city.
All current sworn officers will receive a $5,000 raise, Barker said. In addition, applications are open for the next Hattiesburg Police Academy class.
New recruits who complete the academy will begin with a starting salary of $55,000. Applicants with prior law enforcement experience, higher education or bilingual fluency could earn up to $60,000.
City officials said the package marks the most competitive starting salary in the department’s history. Benefits include health insurance, paid vacation and sick leave, take-home vehicles and retirement under PERS Tier 4.
Applications will be accepted through Nov. 13, 2025.
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