Jackson Police Chief Joe Wade, speaks with homeless individuals regarding recent legislation prohibiting squatting, encampments, and panhandling without a permit, at Stewpot, Thursday, July 3, 2025 in Jackson. Credit: Vickie D. King/Mississippi Today
Diners turned watchful eyes to the stage as Jackson Police Chief Joseph Wade took to the podium. He visited Stewpot Community Services during its daily free lunch hour Thursday to discuss new state laws, which took effect two days earlier, targeting Mississippians experiencing homelessness.