Planning. Oversight. Accountability.
Public Safety Planning provides statewide coordination, oversight, and support for programs that strengthen public safety across Mississippi. The division works to ensure professional standards, data-driven safety initiatives, effective use of public funds, and targeted services that protect vulnerable populations. Through collaboration with state, local, and federal partners, Public Safety Planning helps agencies operate efficiently, lawfully, and with accountability.
Office of Standards and Training
The Office of Standards and Training establishes and enforces statewide certification and training standards for Mississippi law enforcement officers, detention officers, and public safety telecommunicators. The office ensures agencies and officers meet statutory and professional requirements through certification, compliance monitoring, and coordination with approved training providers.
Primary Functions
- Officer certification and recertification
- Training standards oversight and compliance
- Coordination with academies and training partners
Director: Amy Vanderford
Office of Highway Safety
The Office of Highway Safety plans and oversees traffic safety programs designed to reduce crashes, injuries, and fatalities on Mississippi roadways. Using data-driven strategies and federal funding, the office supports enforcement, education, and prevention initiatives in partnership with state and local agencies.
Primary Functions
- Highway safety planning and program oversight
- Federal grant administration
- Traffic safety data analysis and coordination
Director: Helen Porter
Office of Justice Programs
The Office of Justice Programs administers federal and state justice grants that support law enforcement, courts, corrections, victim services, and community-based public safety initiatives. OJP ensures funds are awarded, monitored, and reported in compliance with all applicable requirements while promoting effective and responsible use of public resources.
Within the Office of Justice Programs, the Juvenile Facility Monitoring Unit (JFMU) conducts monitoring and compliance reviews of juvenile detention and correctional facilities. JFMU evaluates facility conditions, safety practices, and operational standards, documents findings, and coordinates corrective actions when deficiencies are identified. This work supports accountability and promotes safe, lawful, and humane operations within juvenile facilities.
Primary Functions
- Justice grant administration and oversight
- Programmatic compliance and reporting
- Juvenile facility monitoring and site reviews
- Coordination of corrective actions
Director: Terrica Shoemo
Council on Aging
The Council on Aging coordinates programs and funding that enhance the safety, independence, and well-being of Mississippi’s aging population. The council focuses on crime prevention, senior protection, and services that help older adults remain safe and engaged in their communities.
Primary Functions
- Senior safety and crime prevention programs
- Grant coordination and partnerships
- Outreach and education initiatives
Director: Carla Taylor
Contact Information
Mississippi Department of Public Safety
Attn: Public Safety Planning
P.O. Box 958
Jackson, MS 39205
Phone: (601) 391-4900
Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Executive Director, Public Safety Planning
Joshua Bromen
