Jackson Man Arrested After Pointing Gun at Police Officer, Posting Video Online
Jackson, Mississippi — A man accused of pointing a firearm at a Jackson Police Department (JPD) officer and then posting the act on social media has been arrested, authorities confirmed.
Jackson Police Chief Joseph Wade addressed the incident in a press conference, emphasizing the severity of the threat and the ongoing concerns regarding criminal behavior in the community.
“We will not allow individuals to point guns at law enforcement and expect no repercussions,” Wade stated. “This is a serious crime, and we must draw a line in the sand in our community.”
The suspect, identified as 24-year-old Steven Perry Jr., allegedly pointed a Glock with an illegal switch attachment at a JPD officer’s cruiser while driving along Highway 80 near Robinson Road on Tuesday. The alarming incident was then posted on Instagram, prompting a swift police investigation.
The Arrest & Charges
Authorities wasted no time in tracking Perry down. He was taken into custody just before 6 p.m. on Wednesday, following a coordinated effort by JPD and other law enforcement agencies.
On Thursday, JPD confirmed that Perry had been officially charged with terroristic threats, a serious offense that could carry severe legal consequences if convicted. His bond was set at $25,000 by a Hinds County judge.
JPD emphasized that the illegal switch attachment on Perry’s Glock is of particular concern. Such modifications effectively turn a semi-automatic firearm into a fully automatic weapon, making it far more dangerous and illegal under federal law.
“I do not want any of our Jackson Police officers, or any law enforcement officer, to lose their life or to be caught in this type of situation where they have to take action,” Chief Wade said.
A Growing Concern for Law Enforcement
Chief Wade expressed frustration with what he sees as a disturbing trend—individuals engaging in reckless and dangerous behavior for social media clout.
“I’m very disgusted that this happened,” he said. “I do not have a magic wand to change the mindset of individuals in our community, especially young individuals, but we have to be firm in enforcing the law.”
Law enforcement officials nationwide have been dealing with the growing social media-fueled crime trend, where individuals commit illegal acts—such as pointing firearms at police officers, engaging in high-speed chases, or committing acts of vandalism—just for online attention.
“This is beyond reckless. Pointing a gun at an officer is not a joke. It’s a threat. It’s a crime. And it will be prosecuted as such.”
What’s Next?
Perry now faces serious legal trouble as prosecutors build their case. The charge of terroristic threats is considered a felony, and if convicted, he could be looking at significant prison time.
Meanwhile, the JPD is using this case as a clear warning to others who may consider similar actions.
“Let this be a lesson,” Chief Wade said. “If you threaten law enforcement or put their lives at risk, we will find you, and we will hold you accountable.”
As Perry awaits further court proceedings, authorities are urging the public to report any information regarding illegal firearm modifications and reckless behavior on social media.
Anyone with additional details about the incident is encouraged to contact the Jackson Police Department or Crime Stoppers to assist in ongoing investigations.