HATTIESBURG, Miss. — Mayor Toby Barker, joined by Police Chief Hardy Sims and other police personnel, announced Monday that applications are now open for the Hattiesburg Police Department’s next Police Academy class.

New officers who complete the academy and graduate into the department will begin with a starting salary of $55,000.

As part of the city’s continued investment in public safety, all current sworn officers will also receive a $5,000 salary increase.

“Our community thrives when we have a strong, stable police department,” Barker said. “By raising the salaries of our current officers and offering new recruits the most competitive starting salary in our city’s history, we’re making sure Hattiesburg continues to attract, grow and retain the best candidates to serve our residents with professionalism and integrity. This is about building a department that reflects the values of our city and the trust of those we serve.”

Based on prior law enforcement experience, higher education and bilingual fluency, new recruits may qualify to start at a salary of up to $60,000 after graduation.

“This is not only the most competitive starting salary our department has ever offered, but it comes at a critical moment for those considering a career in law enforcement,” Sims said. “This is the final opportunity to secure retirement under PERS Tier 4, which allows officers to retire after 30 years of service. Along with comprehensive health insurance, paid vacation and sick leave, take-home vehicles and continued training opportunities, we are offering one of the strongest overall benefit packages in the region.”

Applications for the upcoming academy are open through Nov. 13, 2025. Interested applicants can learn more and apply at www.hburgacademy.com.

“This is a calling, not just a career,” Sims said. “But for those who feel that call to serve, there has never been a better time to answer it.”

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