Crime in Mississippi

In 2016 there were 91,115 crimes reported in the U.S. state of Mississippi, including 238 murders.^[1] In 2017–2018 the violent crime rate dropped 8%.^[2] Out of 50 states, Mississippi ranked 41st in terms of public safety in 2024.^[3] Social crimes such as drug offenses and possession,^[4] as well as property crimes such as robbery saw an overall decrease in 2024.^[5] However, violent offenses increased in the state by 1.27% compared to the previous year.^[6]

Data from the Bureau of Justice Statistics showing the growth of Mississippi's prison population

Cities

In 2018 the city listed in Mississippi as the safest was Madison, with 18 violent crimes.^[7] As of 2020, the most violent city in Mississippi was Jackson, Mississippi.^[8][9]

Capital punishment laws

Main article: Capital punishment in Mississippi

Capital punishment is applied in this state,^[10] and has been used since 1871. Hanging was the original method of execution in the state, though a variety of legislation surrounding the death sentence has led to the implementation or removal of methods. Currently, electrocution, nitrogen hypoxia, lethal injection and firing squad are all approved means of carrying out the death penalty.^[11]

One of the two death sentences of Willie Jerome Manning attracted national attention in May 2013 when the Federal Bureau of Investigation rescinded an evidence report days before Manning's scheduled execution. A key witness in the case would then recant their testimony, leading the charges against Manning for the 1996 Jimmerson-Jordan murders to be dropped. Manning then became the fourth death row exoneree in Mississippi.^[12]