Robber shoots clerk in the mouth

News Briefs From Across The State

Greenville police are looking for a man that shot a clerk in the mouth while attempting to rob her place of business. Tiffany Odem was shot when authorities said a black male walked into the Speedy Cash on U.S. Highway 82 East and demanded money.

Odem was taken to Delta Regional Medical Center before being airlifted to UMC in Jackson, where she was listed in stable condition.

Anyone with information about this incident can call the Greenville Police Department at 662.378.1515.

State trying to simplify mental health commitment

The Associated Press reported that Mississippi lawmakers are trying to simplify the process of having people involuntarily committed for evaluation or treatment of mental illness.

A bill that has passed the House and went to the Senate would set uniform standards in all 82 counties of the state.

House Public Health Chairman Steve Holland says some counties charge significantly more than others for filing commitment papers. He says the fees are as low as $120 in some Mississippi counties and as high as $1,400 in others.

Lawmakers propose setting a base fee of $75 and requiring officials to develop a one-page commitment form that would be easily understood.

The bill is House Bill 1525.

Suspects caught trying to stock pile Sudafed

The Greenwood Police Department recently arrested 16 people for purchasing cold medicine for the sole purpose of making methamphetamines. Greenwood Police Chief Henry Purnell told local news agencies that they were assisted in their investigation by the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics.

Purnell said over the course of two weeks, 16 people were taken into custody for purchasing large quantities of Sudafed, a common ingredient in the meth product.

Purnell said two suspects were caught actually making meth in their car with a child present, and another two individuals were from Mexico.

Purnell said suspects are trying to stock pile the product because state legislators have mandated that soon Sudafed will only be available by prescription.