Trooper First Class Craig James of Sandy Hook was selected by his peers as the 2017 Trooper of the Year for Mississippi Highway Patrol Troop M based in Brookhaven. James is the son of Randy and Diane James of Franklinton, La., and the son- in-law of Kevin and Karen Breland of Sandy Hook. He is married to his wife of nine years, Kandi, and together they have one child, Olivia James.
James is a 2002 graduate of Franklinton High School in Franklinton, La., and continued his education at the University of West Alabama where he was a member of the football team. He returned to his hometown in Franklinton where he began his career in law enforcement in 2005. During his time at the police department, James served as a sergeant, K9 officer and a member of the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office drug task force.
In September 2007, James was shot in the line of duty while responding to a call. After an extensive hospital stay, he recovered and continued to pursue his passion in law enforcement. He was chosen for multiple awards including the 2007 Police Officer of the Year, Military Order of the Purple Heart and a recipient of the Outstanding Law Enforcement award given by Victims and Citizens Against Crime.
After starting his family in Mississippi, James decided to follow his dream of becoming a state trooper.
A member of the 2011 graduating class, he has served on the Special Operations Group, as well as the motorcycle team. In 2012, James, along with his colleagues, received the Medal of Valor for their bravery during a deadly prison riot.
James continues to dedicate his life to law enforcement and serving the state of Mississippi with the love and support of his biggest fan, his daughter, Olivia.
