Mississippi’s capital and largest city, seat of Hinds County
A federal judge blocks the Trump administration's rule redefining qualifying employers for Public Service Loan Forgiveness, while another judge rules the rule is contrary to law. The ruling preserves PSLF benefits for workers in government and nonprofits and prompts Education Department review. The litigation spans multiple states and advocacy groups.
Hinds County District Attorney Jody Owens has resigned after an indictment related to bribery allegations; Lumumba’s reelection bid was affected as prosecutors face trial amid ongoing investigations. Other named officials have pleaded guilty or not guilty as the case advances.
A set of recent missing-person stories from multiple outlets highlight ongoing investigations. New appeals are being issued to locate those who are unaccounted for, with families seeking answers and closure after prolonged absences.
Cassandra Wilson has died at age 70 in Jackson, Mississippi. The Mississippi-born singer expanded jazz boundaries, blending blues, folk and pop. She won two Grammys and influenced a generation of artists. Tributes have poured in from peers and city leaders.
As the High Holy Days approach, Jewish communities confront rising antisemitic threats and political tensions. Leaders urge preparedness over hope, while incidents and surveys show an uptick in fear and division since 9/11’s 25th anniversary.
Tasia Fortune’s death has been ruled a homicide. Jackson police have arrested a suspect, with more arrests likely as investigators follow the evidence in a case that has drawn global attention.
The investigation into Tasia Fortune's death in Jackson has led to the arrest of Jarques Ratliff on a murder charge. Police say Fortune’s death has been ruled a homicide, and investigators anticipate further arrests as they follow new evidence surrounding her associations and the case’s ties to Mississippi’s civil-rights history.
Eight scheduled executions across Georgia, Texas and Alabama have moved in flux this week as courts issue stays and statements from prosecutors and defense teams. In Georgia, Stacey Humphreys has a stay under the Survivor Justice Act as hearings consider whether abuse shaped his crime; in Texas, LeJames Norman remains scheduled for a 6 p.m. (CDT) execution as legal challenges loom. Alabama is set to carry out Jeffery Lee next day, while Florida remains the national pace-setter.