The case that is being investigated in Panola County regarding the death of dogs is very sensitive. It is being investigated to the fullest extent. The case has to stay open until all of the evidence and the right laws and proper authorities can be put into place before being prosecuted. This takes time.

Law enforcement enforces laws; we do not make them. We have joined our department with several state and federal agencies to see who has the proper laws to cover these charges against the defendant. Otherwise, the court will throw the charges out.

In addition to the Panola County Sheriff’s Department, agencies assisting in this investigation include the Bureau of Plant Industries, State Department of Agriculture (Theft Division), Dept. of Interior, Environmental Protection Agency, Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks, the U. S. Attorney’s office and the District Attorney’s office.

Our department took it upon ourselves to involve everyone so that we can be assured of covering every area. This procedure is the way we handle every crime. I feel fortunate to be able to say that all of these agencies will come to our county and assist my department and myself, so that we can give our citizens the very best protection.

A lot has happened in the last year. I am proud to say your Panola County Sheriff’s Department is one of the best and has the most professional employees that I have seen. They finish their work regardless of whether they get paid for it.

We have to be fair and reasonable regardless of who is involved in a crime or what crime has been committed. I have constantly told our citizens to contact me with the good, the bad, the ugly. You have done that, and we have been successful in making good arrests and putting those away who choose to not abide by the laws.

I also ask for you to refer to me about any complaints you might have. A lot of times we are already investigating some of the complaints you call about. We cannot release the information to the public on some situations because it will jeopardize the investigation. Our agency has a lot going on, and we are continually looking to make Panola County a safer place to raise our families. I am asking that each of you be patient as our agency conducts investigations because these investigations take a while as we try to make good arrests and get everyone involved in the crime.

I am humbly asking the citizens of Panola County for your continued support and trust in my department and myself as we continue to investigate, solve crimes and make arrests according to the law which applies to each and every case. Our joint goal is to make Panola County the best in every area for all citizens.

If you have questions or comments, please call me at 662-563-6230. Every call will be returned.

Thank you,

Sheriff Dennis Darby