Transparency is the Pathway to Justice

The death of 1-year-old Kohen Wiley has weighed heavily on my heart. As a mother and a State Representative, I struggle to find words that adequately express the pain and anguish surrounding the death of this innocent child. Regardless of the circumstances, a grieving family has buried a child who should still be laughing, growing, and experiencing life's first milestones.

Scripture reminds us in Micah 6:8 that the Lord requires us "to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with our God." Justice and mercy require more than prayers and condolences. They require transparency, accountability, and a willingness to confront difficult truths.

For the past several years, I have introduced legislation to strengthen transparency and accountability in law enforcement interactions because public trust cannot exist where there is secrecy. Communities deserve answers when deadly force is used. Families deserve the truth. Law enforcement officers who serve honorably also deserve policies that protect both them and the public.

As this investigation continues, I join the many voices calling for a thorough, independent, and transparent review of this tragic incident. The people of Mississippi deserve to know exactly what happened. Transparency is not the enemy of justice. It is the pathway to it.

Communities are hurting, and we all need healing. But healing cannot occur without truth, and trust cannot be rebuilt without accountability.

I ask Mississippians to join me in praying for Kohen Wiley's family, for the Senatobia community, and for all those impacted by this tragedy. May we honor this child's life not only with our words, but with our actions to ensure that every family can have confidence that those sworn to serve and protect will do so with the highest regard for human life.