Police: Here’s how you can help

By Maj. Christopher DeBack

Biloxi Police Department

As the nation struggles with current events and the response to the spread of the COVID-19 virus, the Biloxi Police Department reminds everyone to stay vigilant.  Be mindful of social distancing and repetitive hygiene to aid in cutting down on cross contamination.

We have taken steps to help minimize exposure to all, but at the same time provide a high level of protection to life and property.  Part of that includes the increased issuance of sanitizing supplies and protective equipment to all of our officers. 

Step outside: Another part is our response to calls for service.  We encourage all to call for assistance when needed.  In response and to assist with social distancing, we ask that you meet the responding officer outside.  Certainly there will be situations or times when that is impractical. 

To further cut down on the spread of the virus, we have officers stationed at the police department to take certain non-emergency reports via phone.  We are committed on providing the same great service and resolving every issue possible.

Beware of scams: One crime we usually see a rise in during any crisis is frauds.  Usually the suspect will call, send an email or communicate in some other way insisting they work for some government organization or other agency dedicated to aid.  Through whatever form of communication they usually ask for personal information to include, but not limited to, Social Security Numbers, Dates of Births, whole names and/ or banking information. 

If you receive a call like this, don’t provide any information.  There are not any organizations that are going to call offering money or some other product or service to assist you that doesn’t already have the information they need.  Anytime you, a family member or friend receives one of these communications, you are encouraged to make a report through your local law enforcement agency. 

As a community, we are all in this together.  Your health and safety is our main priority.
Visit the Center for Disease Control’s website
Visit the Mississippi Department of Health’s website
See the city’s coronavirus webpage

News & notes: Biloxi schools, Keesler gate, Senior Olympics

Message from Marcus Boudreaux: Now that schools are to remain closed through April 17, Biloxi Public Schools Superintendent Marcus Bourdreaux has inform for families affected. To see the letter, click here.

Keesler gate hours: The Meadows gates is now open weekdays only from 5:30 to 8:30 a.m. for traffic entering the base and from 4:30 to 6 p.m. for traffic exiting the base. The White Avenue and Pass Road gates remain open 24/7.

Senior games postponed: The Mississippi Senior Olympics has postponed all of its events scheduled through April 25. To see more details and to visit the website, click here.