Harper Addresses Public Concerns

Thank you for all of your calls and concerns. As your alderman, I want to take a moment to address issues I have personally received from residents regarding traffic enforcement, roadblocks, and arrests related to suspended licenses. I take every complaint seriously, especially when it involves how laws are enforced in our community.

I have also received concerns about individuals being taken to jail for driving with a suspended license. After speaking with Chief Borges and reviewing the department’s policies, it is clear that these procedures are in place to protect both public safety and the city from liability. Driving with a suspended license is governed by Mississippi law, and the department’s actions are consistent with those legal requirements.

Regarding insurance, Mississippi law clearly states that every motor vehicle operated in this state must have valid liability insurance. Under Mississippi Code § 63-15-4(2)(a), every vehicle must be covered by a motor vehicle liability insurance policy that meets the required limits, and it is the responsibility of the insured party to maintain that coverage. Insurance is considered a secondary offense, meaning it is requested after a lawful traffic stop with probable cause or at a legally conducted roadblock.

To everyone on the road, imagine being hit by someone who has no license or insurance, while you only carry liability coverage on a vehicle you’ve paid for. Accountability and safety apply to everyone.

My goal is to ensure transparency, fairness, and safety! I encourage those in Ward 4 and all residents to make sure everything required to drive legally is in order. A valid license and insurance are not debatable. This is not just a Magee issue; enforcement exists everywhere, whether you have been stopped yet or not.

I will continue to monitor this closely and work to strengthen communication and trust between the citizens of Magee and MPD.

JULIAN HARPER

WARD 4