Rankin923web

SALUTE
to First Responders
Why did you decide to become a police officer?
I wanted to become a police officer since I was a little girl. I always
had a spirit of wanting to help people in any way that I could.
How long have you been with the Flowood Police Department?
I’ve been with the Flowood Police Department for a total of three years.
Before working here, I was with the Hinds County Sheriff’s Department
for a total of 13 years.
Tell us about your family.
I am a product of a military background. My father is a retired senior
master sergeant with the United States Airforce, my brother is
a medical doctor of obstetrics and gynecology and also serves as a
lieutenant colonel in the United States Airforce. My eldest sister
works for a law firm, and my older sister works for an addiction clinic.
My mother was, and still is, a stay-at-home mom who continues, to
this day, to guide and nurture the family.
What is the toughest thing you have experienced in your job.
The toughest thing I have experienced in my career is having to notify
a family of the loss of a loved one. That is never easy. It takes a piece of
you every time to see a mother or a father try to process the news you
are bringing to them.
Sergeant
Samantha
THOMPSON
FLOWOOD POLICE DEPARTMENT
Share some things you enjoy doing in your spare time.
I really enjoy traveling and visiting family. A good book is always the
next best thing to breathing.
What are three things on your bucket list?
Vacationing in Greece, attending an Anita Baker concert, and skydiving.
What is one piece of advice you would give to a young person?
My advice to a young person would be, there is always tomorrow,
don’t sacrifice your future for the present. And read books!
70 • SEPTEMBER 2023