Desoto County News

Southaven meth trafficker sentenced to 10 years

Photo: James Clark Jr. (Courtesy photo)

Feb 24, 2025-The DeSoto County District Attorney’s Office today announced the conviction of James Clark Jr. for trafficking methamphetamine in Southaven. Clark has been sentenced to 10 years in the custody of the Mississippi Department of Corrections (MDOC), followed by 10 years of post-release supervision (PRS).

James Clark Jr. (Courtesy photo)

This conviction comes after work by the Southaven Police Department and prosecution led by Assistant District Attorney Ben Weathers. 

“We are shielding DeSoto County families from these toxic drugs, and today’s conviction is another significant step in that fight,” said District Attorney Matthew Barton. “Methamphetamine is a very dangerous and addictive drug—that has ruined the lives of numerous families and their loved ones. This case should serve as a stark warning to anyone else trying to distribute dangerous substances in DeSoto County: if you are caught trafficking drugs, we will make you pay the price with no eligibility for parole or early release.”

On Sept. 26, 2023, James Clark Jr. was found in possession of 61 dosage units of MDMA with the intent to sell, barter, transfer, manufacture, distribute, or disperse. 

The year and a half time frame between arrest, prosecution and conviction highlights the ongoing need for a crime lab in DeSoto County.

“Unfortunately, the project has stalled due to political delays, but I remain committed to ensuring that this vital resource becomes a reality for our community,” said Barton.