MERIDIAN, Miss. (Queen City Newsfeed) A Lauderdale County deputy has earned a top statewide honor. Lt. Kris Cokel was named the 2026 Law Enforcement Coordinator of the Year by Mississippi Crime Stoppers.
Lauderdale County shared the news in a press release. Cokel got the award last week at the group’s yearly conference.
The conference was held Oct. 14 through 16 in Biloxi. Crime Stoppers groups from across Mississippi came together. They took part in training and heard from speakers. They also honored officers for their work.
Nearly 40 Years of Service
Cokel has worked in law enforcement since 1987. He got his start in Florida.
In 2007, he joined the Lauderdale County Sheriff’s Office as a patrol deputy. After that, he worked as a DUI enforcement officer. Later, he became a shift sergeant.
Then in 2020, he was named night shift lieutenant over patrol.
Cokel is also a U.S. Navy veteran who served 20 years. He is a graduate of the Navy’s Master at Arms Academy. That school trains military police.
In addition, he finished police academies in three states. They are Mississippi, Florida and Washington.
What Crime Stoppers Does
East Mississippi Crime Stoppers started in 1982. It brings together law enforcement, community members and the public. The goal is to help fight crime in our area.
The program covers six counties. They are Lauderdale, Newton, Neshoba, Jasper, Clarke and Kemper.
Anyone can send in a tip at any time. You do not have to give your name. So your tip stays anonymous.
Also, you could get a cash reward. That happens if your tip leads to an arrest.
How to Leave a Tip
If you know something about a crime, you can call 855 485 TIPS. That is 855 485 8477.
You can also send a tip online or through the Crime Stoppers mobile app.
