Hattiesburg, Mississippi — Mayor Toby Barker, joined by Police Chief Hardy Sims and Hattiesburg Police Department personnel, announced Thursday, June 25, that applications are now open for the department’s next police academy recruit class.

The announcement follows the graduation of Police Academy Class 45 on June 22, when 13 new officers completed the department’s 17-week academy and joined the ranks of the Hattiesburg Police Department.

“Our city is stronger when we continue investing in the people who serve and protect it,” Barker said. “The graduation of 13 new officers this week was an important step for public safety in Hattiesburg, and opening applications for the next academy class allows us to keep building on that momentum.”

New officers who complete the academy and graduate into the department will begin with a starting salary of $55,000. 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 an opportunity for men and women who feel called to serve to begin a meaningful career with a department that is committed to training, professionalism and community,” Sims said. “Our academy is designed to prepare recruits for the responsibility of this work and the expectations our residents have for those who wear the badge.”

In addition to competitive pay, the Hattiesburg Police Department offers comprehensive health insurance, paid vacation and sick leave, continued training opportunities and retirement benefits through the Public Employees’ Retirement System of Mississippi.

Applications for the upcoming academy are open through Aug. 7, 2026. Interested applicants can learn more and apply at www.hburgacademy.com.

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