The Yazoo community lost one of its more memorable characters this week with the passing of former police chief Kenny Hampton.
Known for his colorful social media language and unorthodox methods, the veteran law enforcement officer made an impression among the community, state and even nation. Attention was given to Hampton through countless interviews, a few television documentaries and several speaking engagements.
But what this newspaper remembers Hampton most for was his open dialogue. Even if we perhaps disagreed, one thing was for certain: we knew where he stood. In this business, we appreciate honesty, directness and transparency. And we certainly experienced that with him.
Regardless of how one felt about Hampton’s methods, the safety of his hometown community was truly found within his heart. He was determined that the alleged criminals knew he was on the clock. Proof of that could be found listening to radio traffic during the early morning hours. If there was an incident that needed a prompt response, he was on the way with his fellow officers.
Speaking with a few current and former local law enforcement officers, they shared that same sentiment. More than once it was relayed that they knew Hampton supported them and that he would put in the hard work and long hours by their side.
It can be said without a doubt that Hampton certainly was a character. With his scorpion-imaged cowboy hat and signature wooden stick, he left an impression.
But Hampton was more than just a character. He had character.
Unforgettable characters can be created from imagination or even embellishment. Often, they are amplified by a distinctive trait, almost taking on a fictional persona. But for those who knew Hampton, they knew he was the real deal. He certainly walked the walk and talked the talk. Regardless of if you believed in his methods or language, it was no image. He truly lived what he portrayed.
And just like his favorite movie, Walking Tall, he certainly did that.
Hampton will be greatly missed. And we will miss those days when he would arrive at this newspaper, telling us he had a story.
In these bittersweet times, it is his story that we hope we did justice.
