MPD announces formal charges in Oct. 1 homicide
Published 2:02 pm Friday, October 9, 2026
The Meridian Police Department has announced formal charges against three individuals in connection with the October 1, 2026, shooting death of Dearius Ruffin in the 4500 block of Manning Street.
The following individuals have each been charged with Capital Murder and Armed Robbery. No bond has been set on either charge.
• Tynejaris Finley
• Kortland Browning
• Jaquevius Lott
Browning was taken into custody less than four hours after the shooting. Following an extensive investigation, officers executed two additional arrest warrants on Wednesday, Oct. 7, taking Finley and Lott into custody.
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The arrests are the result of coordinated efforts by MPD’s Criminal Investigation Division, SWAT Team, and patrol officers, who worked continuously to identify, locate, and apprehend the suspects.
“Our responsibility is to pursue the facts, hold those responsible accountable, and stand with the families affected by violent crime,” said Assistant Chief Dareall Thompson. “Families are a priority for this department, and they always will be. I commend the dedication and professionalism of our Criminal Investigation Division, SWAT Team, and every officer involved in bringing this case to this point.”
All individuals charged are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
