Matthew Barton

District Attorney for Mississippi’s 23rd Judicial District , Lawyer, husband to Megan, and dad to Eleanor.

[DeSoto County District Attorney's Office @DesotoCountyDA]

“They go where we could not. And they take care of us. They have done great work and our office tries to honor that by getting the best results we can. I just want to say thank you very much and welcome back to the job.” https://t.co/Zj8lJ3KA16

[Matthew Barton @bartonforda]

Pleased to join President Trump and the Memphis Safe Task Force this morning. What happens in Memphis impacts communities like DeSoto County. That’s why my team and I will never waver in keeping our county safe, strong, and attractive.

[DeSoto County District Attorney's Office @DesotoCountyDA]

HSI AND DISTRICT ATTORNEY SECURE ARREST AND INDICTMENT IN INTERNATIONAL FRAUD CASE TARGETING ELDERLY

Hernando, Miss. - DeSoto County District Attorney Matthew Barton announced today the indictment of Taiwanese national Chia Lai on four felony counts, including conspiracy to commit fraud, false pretense, money laundering, and wire fraud, stemming from an international scheme that reached into the millions of dollars primarily by targeting elderly victims and draining their bank accounts.

Lai was apprehended upon arrival at a U.S. airport as part of a joint operation with federal authorities. However, initial efforts to secure his custody were delayed by California’s sanctuary state policies, which prioritize political ideology over public safety. Local agencies in California initially refused to cooperate with U.S. Customs and Border Protection in honoring a valid Mississippi warrant, a decision that risked allowing this criminal to escape accountability and return overseas.

That delay mattered. Had Lai been released or denied entry, his criminal network could have continued preying on vulnerable victims in Mississippi and across the country.

Thanks to persistent coordination between Homeland Security Investigations and the DeSoto County District Attorney’s Office, Lai was ultimately transferred to Los Angeles International Airport, where the LAX Police Department honored the Mississippi indictment. Lai was taken into custody and transferred for prosecution in DeSoto County.

“Today’s successful apprehension of this fugitive highlights our office’s commitment to protecting DeSoto County residents,” said District Attorney Matthew Barton. “Sadly, it is also a stark reminder of how liberal policies allow dangerous criminals to hide behind sanctuary policies.”

Barton continued:

“Let me be clear. My office will not tolerate anyone who exploits our citizens. We will track you down, arrest you, and hold you accountable, no matter where you are and no matter who stands in the way.”

This case was investigated by the Hernando Police Department and the DeSoto County District Attorney’s Office and underscores the necessity of strong cooperation between state and federal law enforcement.

The DeSoto County District Attorney’s Office remains firmly committed to public safety and to defending Mississippians from fraud, exploitation, and crime at every level.

The District Attorney’s Office urges elderly residents and their families to remain vigilant and informed about financial scams. Criminals often target seniors through phone calls, emails, and online messages designed to create fear or urgency in order to steal money or personal information. Citizens are encouraged to verify requests for funds, avoid sharing personal or banking information, and report suspected scams immediately to law enforcement. Awareness and education remain critical tools in preventing these crimes before they occur.

The charges contained in the indictment are allegations only. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law. All factual details are based on court records and statements made during court proceedings.

[Matthew Barton @bartonforda]

“We saw in the Lindsey Whiteside case that there really is no oversight to judges except voters,” Barton said. “If we want true accountability… we cannot allow an elected judge to be shielded from the vast majority of voters they serve.” #msleg https://t.co/8a2uWMwAPA

[DeSoto County District Attorney's Office @DesotoCountyDA]

DESOTO COUNTY DA’S OFFICE COORDINATES WITH ICE TO ARREST AND DEPORT VIOLENT OFFENDER FROM MEMPHIS

Hernando, MISS.— The DeSoto County District Attorney’s Office announced that its investigators, working in coordination with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Olive Branch Police Department (OBPD), conducted a coordinated operation today resulting in the arrest of Miquel Ambrosio during a scheduled appearance in Olive Branch Municipal Court.

Ambrosio, a Memphis resident, had previously been arrested in Shelby County on a domestic assault charge and was also facing a DUI and additional charges in Southaven, Mississippi. At the time of his court appearance, Ambrosio had an active federal immigration detainer issued by ICE.

“Strong partnerships among law enforcement are crucial to keeping our communities safe, and today’s operation shows what can be achieved when local and federal agencies work together," said District Attorney Matthew Barton. "My office is proud to stand with ICE agents to ensure that immigration laws are upheld and that our citizens remain protected so that our county does not carry the burden of violent offenders who are unlawfully present in the United States.”

Special Agent(s) with the District Attorney’s Office coordinated with ICE Agents and Olive Branch Police officers to safely apprehend Ambrosio when he arrived for his hearing this morning. Officials report that he was taken into custody without incident and was immediately transferred to ICE custody.

“DeSoto County sits on the doorstep of one of the most violent cities in the nation, and our geographical proximity means we regularly deal with dangerous individuals who cross into our community and pose a real threat to our residents," Barton continued. "I’m hopeful that when the State Legislature returns in January, lawmakers will give local law enforcement and DeSoto County additional backing and tougher laws needed to keep our families safe and prevent Memphis crime from crossing over into our county.”

The District Attorney’s Office noted that Ambrosio meets the current administration’s criteria for deportation, which protects public safety and helps ease the strain on the local jail and court system that are already heavily burdened.

@ICEgov @Sec_Noem

[DeSoto County District Attorney's Office @DesotoCountyDA]

D.A. BARTON’S STATEMENT ON THE NATIONAL GUARD BEING DEPLOYED TO MEMPHIS …

Democrat policies have been disastrous for Memphis and the communities that border them. I’ve been saying all along that the people of Memphis deserve so much more. Instead, soft-on-crime policies and “catch-and-release” have turned a once-great city into a war zone.

Despite all this, DeSoto County law enforcement has led the charge against the criminals pouring across our state line for years now - and we’ll keep taking their trash out. But let me be clear, my office welcomes President Trump’s deployment of National Guard to Memphis.

They are on the brink of being so far gone it may never be recognizable again. And DeSoto County will not be next. We will not let Memphis’ mistakes destroy the strong communities, excellent schools, and attractive economy we have built here.

Again, I thank President @realDonaldTrump for pushing back and stepping up on behalf of the good, law-abiding people here.

[Matthew Barton @bartonforda]

This outcome would not have been possible without the seamless collaboration of the Southaven Police Department, the DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office, and the U.S. Marshals. It was truly a team effort, and justice was served because of it.

[DeSoto County District Attorney's Office @DesotoCountyDA]

55 YEARS: DA MAKES EXAMPLE OUT OF FUGITIVE

HERNANDO, MISS. – Yesterday, Joshua Zimmerman was convicted of attempted murder and escape and handed a 50-year prison sentence without the possibility of parole for attempted murder, plus 5 additional years for the courthouse escape, to be served concurrently, totaling 55 years behind bars. Zimmerman still faces pending federal sentencing as well as additional charges in Texas.

This successful resolution was the result of an exceptional joint effort by the DeSoto County District Attorney’s Office, the DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office under Sheriff Thomas E. Tuggle II, the Southaven Police Department, and the U.S. Marshals Service. A combined reward of $20,000, including $10,000 contributed by the District Attorney’s Office, proved crucial in locating and apprehending Zimmerman following a tip, leading to the end of a multi-state manhunt.

District Attorney Matthew Barton praised the coordinated work of all involved agencies. “This outcome would not have been possible without the seamless collaboration of the Southaven Police Department, the DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office, and the U.S. Marshals. It was truly a team effort, and justice was served because of it,” Barton said.

He also drove home the role of his prosecutors. “They are the silent gladiators who play a crucial role in keeping our neighborhoods safe, even if you don’t always see them,” said Barton. “Without them, the justice system — and holding criminals accountable — could not happen.”

In September 2023, Zimmerman shot a Southaven resident in the neck and dropped him off at Baptist Memorial Hospital–DeSoto. The victim survived. Surveillance footage and a citizen tip were key in identifying the suspect, who was quickly apprehended. While awaiting trial, Zimmerman escaped from the DeSoto County Courthouse in Hernando in June 2024, triggering a nationwide manhunt.

Zimmerman was eventually captured following a 15-hour standoff at a Chicago seafood restaurant near the Democratic National Convention, where he had been hiding in the ceiling. He still faces federal sentencing scheduled for October and murder charges in Texas related to the death of 23-year-old Keyanna Mercer in Houston, as well as unresolved charges in Connecticut.

“Let me be clear: DeSoto County will never be a safe haven for criminals,” Barton said in closing. “If you threaten our community, we will find you, we will prosecute you, and you will serve a stiff jail sentence in the hot Mississippi Delta.”

These cases were investigated by the Southaven Police Department and the DeSoto County Sheriff’s Department and prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Gordon Shaw.

Photo: Bob Bakken

[Matthew Barton @bartonforda]

Thanks to the swift work of Southaven Police and the determination of our prosecutors, we’ve taken a violent criminal off the streets. I hope this thug is yet another example of why you should not commit crime in DeSoto County.

[DeSoto County District Attorney's Office @DesotoCountyDA]

Southaven Man Sentenced to 35 Years for Targeted Ambush and Armed Robbery at Apartments

HERNANDO, MISS. – Detrich Neal, 21, of Southaven, pleaded guilty today to Attempted Murder and Armed Robbery in DeSoto County Circuit Court. The charges stem from a violent string of crimes that began in July 2024 and culminated in an attempted execution-style shooting just months later.

In July 2024, Neal ran into the victim at a gas station before robbing him at gunpoint at the Dorchester Apartments, stealing the victim’s firearm. The victim reported the robbery to the Southaven Police Department, and warrants were issued for Neal’s arrest, where he remained at large for several months.

Then, in October 2024, Neal spotted the same victim driving through a gas station after meeting up with his friends and followed him to the Dorchester Apartments. As the victim backed into a parking space, Neal pulled in front of the vehicle, jumped out, and fired three rounds directly into the victim’s windshield. The victim was struck twice in the face but survived. The victim, who had driven himself to Baptist DeSoto Hospital, was found in stable condition.

A strong investigative effort by Southaven Police after the shooting revealed that Neal was hiding in his girlfriend’s apartment. During surveillance, officers spotted Neal exiting the apartment. Neal fled on foot into a wooded area but was apprehended within minutes by officers near Tchulahoma and Heather Ridge.

“It is obvious this apartment complex has become a magnet for criminal activity,” said District Attorney Matthew Barton. “But let me be clear: violent crime will not be tolerated where families sleep at night. My office will be actively exploring every option to stop criminal activity in apartment complexes like this one."

Neal was sentenced to 30 years in the Mississippi Department of Corrections for the charge of Attempted Murder. He also received 5 years for Armed Robbery, to run concurrently, followed by 20 years of post-release supervision. Because of his prior record, Neal will be classified as a habitual offender.

"Thanks to the swift work of Southaven Police and the determination of our prosecutors, we’ve taken a violent criminal off the streets,” Barton continued. “I hope this thug is yet another example of why you should not commit crime in DeSoto County."

This case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Michael Steele. The investigation was led by the Southaven Police Department.

[DeSoto County District Attorney's Office @DesotoCountyDA]

ILLEGAL ALIEN INDICTED FOR MULTIPLE COUNTS OF SEXUAL BATTERY CAPTURED IN DESOTO COUNTY

HERNANDO, MISS. – District Attorney Matthew Barton announced today that Manuel Ivan Meraz-Sandoval, an illegal alien from Chihuahua, Mexico, has been apprehended following his indictment on four counts of Sexual Battery by a DeSoto County Grand Jury yesterday.

Meraz-Sandoval was captured this week by the DeSoto County Sheriff’s Department Fugitive Team, working in coordination with the District Attorney’s Office, after authorities received credible information that he could be attempting to evade justice by fleeing the country.

“This bad actor—who is in this country illegally—was indicted for heinous crimes against innocent victims,” said District Attorney Matthew Barton. “We received intelligence that he may try to escape DeSoto County, and the DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office Fugitive Team, along with our investigators, acted quickly to ensure that didn’t happen. Thanks to their swift action and professionalism, he will now face the consequences and deportation for his actions.”

Meraz-Sandoval was taken into custody without incident and is currently being held in the DeSoto County Adult Detention Center. ICE has been notified of his illegal status.

“I don’t care where you come from—if you hurt people in DeSoto County, we’re coming for you,” Barton continued. “We aren’t going to sit back and let violent criminals, especially those here illegally, terrorize our families. If you commit a crime in DeSoto County, we’re going to hunt you down and hold you accountable.”

[Matthew Barton @bartonforda]

This week, I had the opportunity to meet with Southaven business owners to talk about how our office is working to help keep DeSoto County safe—and economically attractive. When crime is low and accountability is high, families invest, jobs grow, and businesses expand.

[Matthew Barton @bartonforda]

Welcome to Southaven, Raising Cane’s! Had a great time this morning enjoying some tenders and discussing the work we’re doing at the DA’s Office to ensure Southaven remains a place where businesses can thrive, customers feel safe, and employment opportunities continue to grow.

[Matthew Barton @bartonforda]

I’ve said it before and I will repeat it. There are few things in this business that boil my blood more than a taxpayer getting ripped off. After this announcement, we’re not sneaking up on people any more.

[DeSoto County District Attorney's Office @DesotoCountyDA]

Operation SNAP Trap Nets Four in Welfare Fraud Case

As part of Operation SNAP Trap, agents from the Mississippi Department of Human Services (MDHS), District Attorney’s Office and officers from the DeSoto County Fugitive Division successfully apprehended four individuals indicted on a total of 16 charges for fraudulently obtaining Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. These four defendants collectively defrauded the state out of more than $131,000 in taxpayer-funded assistance. All were safely taken into custody within hours of the operation commencing.

The individuals indicted include:
Stephanie Wright – 3 counts, $18,114.00
Tiffany Harrell – 5 counts, $30,443.00
Syerra Lynks – 3 counts, $30,853.00
Lashonda Smith – 5 counts, $52,053.00

"Welfare assistance benefits are meant to support low-income individuals and families who genuinely need them. These individuals exploited the system, stealing from taxpayers and undermining the integrity of the program designed to assist those in need," said District Attorney Matthew Barton. "I want to express my gratitude to the MDHS Office of Inspector General, MDHS agents, my team, and the DeSoto County Sheriff's Department for their thorough work on this operation. We are committed to holding accountable those who defraud the taxpayers of Mississippi."

The operation, executed under Operation SNAP Trap, underscores the continued efforts of law enforcement and state agencies to combat fraud and protect public resources. Investigations are ongoing, and further charges or arrests may follow.

The charges in the indictment are allegations only, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty. All factual details are based on court documents and statements made during court proceedings.

[DeSoto County District Attorney's Office @DesotoCountyDA]

⚠️ Illegal Alien Child Predator Convicted, Pending Deportation ⚠️

Javier Escamilla, an illegal immigrant from Mexico, has been convicted after pleading guilty to the crime of sexual battery against a child. Read more: https://t.co/Ds1qeM009Y

[DeSoto County District Attorney's Office @DesotoCountyDA]

Illegal Alien Takes 'Need for Speed' to a Whole New Level—Over 100 MPH!

Carlos Javier Origuen Romero, a native of Venezuela living illegally in Memphis with an active ICE detainer, was arrested two weeks ago in Olive Branch for felony eluding a law enforcement officer while driving at speeds exceeding 100 MPH, endangering the lives of both citizens and law enforcement officers.

[Matthew Barton @bartonforda]

How did coming to DeSoto County to commit a crime work out for you? Not well. Tell your friends back in Memphis — if they come here to commit a crime, they’ll end up on the farm in the Delta, too. We don’t tolerate criminals in DeSoto County. https://t.co/J7CWNbBqJy

[DeSoto County District Attorney's Office @DesotoCountyDA]

Atlanta Man Pleads Guilty to Sexual Battery, Receives 20-Year Sentence

Hernando, Miss. – Ameer Abdul-Karim, 39, of Atlanta, has pleaded guilty yesterday to two counts of Sexual Battery and has been sentenced to 20 years in the custody of the Mississippi Department of Corrections (MDOC), with an additional 20 years of post-release supervision (PRS). Abdul-Karim will also be required to register as a sex offender for the remainder of his life. He is not eligible for early release or parole during his sentence.

“Sexual battery is a heinous crime, and our office will use the same rigor and integrity that we apply to all cases to relentlessly pursue justice for victims of sexual crimes, like this one,” said District Attorney Matthew Barton. "Ameer Abdul-Karim will now serve a 20-year prison sentence, face 20 years of post-release supervision, and will be required to register as a sex offender for the rest of his life. This case serves as a reminder that those who commit such offenses will be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.”

This case was investigated by Lieutenant Tanner Moore with the Horn Lake Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Sam Barber.

[Matthew Barton @bartonforda]

While Mississippi remains asleep at the wheel. #msleg https://t.co/RgS3Kqeg3t

[Matthew Barton @bartonforda]

Thanks for having me on, @grgibert. ICE can’t do it alone. It’s going to take a collaborative approach from local and state law enforcement to protect residents from criminal illegal aliens. Mississippi needs to stop standing on the sidelines. https://t.co/nkhTkytBut

[Matthew Barton @bartonforda]

It’s disappointing that Mississippi is not among the states supporting Secretary Noem and President Trump’s mission to deport criminal illegal aliens. That’s why I pushed for a bill to be introduced in Mississippi on Monday to help the Trump administration fulfill its mission of deporting criminal illegals aliens. The federal government needs all the assistance it can get, and I hope our governor and other state leaders will hear their request for help and take action before the #msleg session ends.