Denis Borges was officially sworn in as the newest chief of the Magee Police Department on September 3 at the first September meeting of the Mayor and Board of Aldermen.
Borges is completing his service as a lieutenant with the Mississippi Department of Mental Health at Ellisville State School before assuming his role in Magee full time on Monday, September 16.
Appearing before the board, Borges shared some of his plans once he takes office. These include having all police officers certified. Those who are not certified will be sent to the police academy to receive certification. He also plans to review all policies and procedures within the department.
Before the meeting, Borges spent Tuesday in Magee, touring the facilities along with the town. He identified several physical site issues at the jail and police department that need repair, replacement, or upgrade.
The new chief brings several years and various types of experience to the job. Borges has served as a K9 handler for the Hattiesburg School District Police, specializing in firearms and explosive detection. There Borges also served as a Gangs Intelligence Officer, School Resource Officer, and grant writer.
“I contributed to the Laurel Police Department under the leadership of Chief Tyron Stewart, initially assigned to patrol duties before transitioning to the Highway Criminal Interdiction Unit,” Borges stated. In addition he held the position of police officer with the Picayune Police Department and Jones Community College.
Born in Cuba, Borges moved to the United States when he was eight years old. In 1999, he relocated to Laurel, Miss. He and his wife Courtney and their son, seven-year-old Holden, will soon move into their new home in Magee.
Chief Borges says he has already begun to think about short term/long term goals, two to five years out. These include community engagement, advancing officer training and improving departmental efficiency. To achieve these ideals he says he plans to expand training, foster stronger community relationships, and use modern strategies to address crime and safety concerns effectively.
Having been a K9 handler, Borges plans to reinstate a K9 officer. As a grant writer he said he also plans to pursue more grant funds available to police departments.
He says that transparency within the department is a key element to its success.
“My decision to pursue the role of Chief of Police in Magee was driven by the opportunity to make a positive impact on the community and steer the department towards progressive changes. Having worked for several agencies, I bring a unique perspective and vision to Magee. My motto reflects my belief in continuous improvement: ‘The more we train, the better we serve.’”
