Three Officers Promoted to Captain During Meridian Police Department Swearing-In Ceremony

Images Courtesy of City of Meridian Facebook

MERIDIAN, Miss. (Queen City Newsfeed) – The Meridian Police Department celebrated a day of advancement and unity as three officers were officially promoted to the rank of captain during a swearing-in ceremony held Monday.

The event, described by city officials as more than a formal occasion, was marked by a sense of family and pride within the department. “Our city got stronger today,” the City of Meridian said in a statement. “Promotions within our department remind us that when one of us grows, we all grow. Each step forward strengthens our shared commitment to serve and protect this community we call home.”

Chief Malachi Sanders echoed that sentiment, emphasizing teamwork and shared success within the department.

“This department is a family. When one of us succeeds, we all succeed,” Sanders said. “These promotions reflect hard work, dedication, and a deep commitment to keeping every citizen of Meridian safe. That’s what true momentum looks like.”

The officers promoted to captain include:

  • Captain Damian Cole, who will lead the Patrol Division

  • Captain Tavaras Smith, who will oversee the Criminal Investigation Division

  • Captain Billy Jenkins, who will direct the Training Division

Assistant Chief Patrick Gale, Assistant Chief Dareall Thompson, Captain Damian Cole, Patrol Division, Captain Tavaras Smith, Criminal Investigation Division, Captain Billy Jenkins, Training Division, and Chief Malachi Sanders. (Courtesy: City of Meridian)
Captain Billy Jenkins, Training Division, is pinned by Chief Malachi Sanders. (Courtesy: City of Meridian)
Captain Damian Cole, Patrol Division, is pinned by Assistant Chief Patrick Gale and Chief Malachi Sanders. (Courtesy: City of Meridian)
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