MSU Police Department debuts new uniforms

MSU Police Department Corporal Emmitt Johnson (left) and Police Chief Vance Rice wear the department’s new uniforms, which all officers will begin wearing next week. (Photo by Beth Wynn)

Contact: James Carskadon

STARKVILLE, Miss.—Mississippi State University Police Department officers will transition to a new look over spring break.

The department recently purchased black Armorskin uniforms made by Blauer, replacing the gray polo-style shirts officers previously wore. MSU Police Chief Vance Rice said officers were able to select the uniforms they would be wearing.

“They all really liked the external vest with these uniforms,” Vance said. “These will help them stay cooler and give a more professional look.”

MSUPD personnel will begin wearing the new uniforms on Monday [March 13], during the university’s spring break. The new uniforms also contain a suspender system that will help evenly distribute the weight of officers’ duty belts, which weigh approximately 20 pounds. An even weight distribution, Rice said, will help prevent back pain and other ailments that can come with the added weight.

MSU’s nationally accredited police department is part of the university’s Division of Student Affairs. The police department can be reached via phone call or text message at 662-325-2121. In emergencies, dial 911 for assistance.

MSU is Mississippi’s leading university, available online at www.msstate.edu.