COMMISSIONER TINDELL ANNOUNCES MISSISSIPPI HIGHWAY PATROL COLONEL AND OFFICE OF STANDARDS AND TRAINING DIRECTOR

JACKSON, Miss., - Today, Mississippi Department of Public Safety Commissioner Sean Tindell announced Tadd Pitts as the Colonel of the Mississippi Highway Patrol and Amy Vanderford as the Director of the Office of Standards and Training. 

Colonel Pitts is a graduate of the University of Southern Mississippi where he earned his Bachelor's in Criminal Justice. During his tenure in law enforcement, he has worked as a deputy for the Rankin County Sheriff’s Office, he is a graduate of Cadet Class #59, served on the Governor’s policy team, and served as Executive Protection for the Mississippi Speaker of the House. Colonel Pitts has served as Deputy Commissioner and Director of Governmental Affairs, where he managed MDPS legislation, handles legislative requests, and coordinates with various officials and groups to ensure effective policy measures.
 

“Tadd and Amy are two incredibly talented individuals, and I know they’ll do a great job in their respective roles,” said Governor Tate Reeves. “Enhancing public safety throughout our state has always been one of my top priorities. As key members of the Mississippi Department of Public Safety’s leadership team, I know Tadd and Amy will help us continue keeping Mississippians safe.”

Amy Vanderford will serve as Director of the Office of Standards and Training, bringing more than 25 years of comprehensive law enforcement experience to the role. Vanderford has extensive background in training academy leadership, narcotics investigations, and curriculum development. She currently serves on the Mississippi Peace Officers Standards and Training Curriculum Committee and has demonstrated expertise in developing and implementing effective, high-quality law enforcement training programs. Vanderford previously served as Director of the Mississippi Delta Community College Law Enforcement Training Academy and as an agent with the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics. She is a graduate of the University of Mississippi with a bachelor’s degree in political science and holds both a master’s degree and doctorate from Delta State University.

“I am extremely proud to announce Tadd Pitts as the new Colonel of the Mississippi Highway Patrol. Colonel Pitts exemplifies hard work, dedication, and compassion, and he is deeply committed to what is best for the people of Mississippi," said Commissioner Sean Tindell. "I am also proud to announce Amy Vanderford as the new Director of the Office of Standards and Training. As a former training academy director, she is driven, understands the standards of law enforcement, and is committed to ensuring Mississippi’s officers receive the highest level of training.”