Outrage after Miss. civic leader suggests throwing objects at police

JACKSON CITY, MS (KTRK) -- There is growing outrage after a Mississippi civic leader suggested residents throw objects at law enforcement officers.

Councilman Kenneth Stokes, of Jackson City, Miss., says he's fed up with police and sheriff's deputies chasing after "small-time crooks" in his neighborhood. But those same remarks have evoked condemnation from citizens, police and the governor of Mississippi.

"As these jurisdictions come into Jackson, we throw rocks, bricks and bottles at them," Stokes told reporters last week.

Rankin Co. Sheriff Bryan Bailey called those comments highly inappropriate.

"A wise man once told me, 'You can't fight jealousy or ignorance,' and the statements that Mr. Stokes has made are complete ignorance," Bailey said.

Madison Co. Sheriff Randy Tucker posted on Facebook that he would hold Stokes accountable if any of his officers were attacked as a result of his statements.