With over three decades of dedicated public service in law enforcement, Johnny O. Scott combines professional expertise with a heartfelt commitment to community growth and family values. His distinguished career path from DUI Officer to former Chief Deputy Sheriff of the Pike County reflects his vision of law enforcement as a community-building service—a philosophy that continues to guide his work as a “Judicial Protection Specialist” and his ongoing involvement in the Magnolia community he proudly calls home.
Education
Johnny O. Scott graduated from South Pike High School in 1981. He continued his education at Southwest Community College, earning a degree in Law Enforcement in 1983. In 1985, he completed his Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice at the University of Southern Mississippi.
Experience
How my journey began
Johnny began his Criminal Justice career in 1985 with the Pike County Sheriff’s Office as a DUI Officer. He quickly distinguished himself by leading the Department in DUI arrests while participating in numerous DUI safety awareness programs. This early work demonstrated his forward-thinking approach to policing—viewing it as a community service that increases value, rather than simply seeking to incarcerate individuals.
State service
In 1989, Johnny elevated his professional skills when he accepted a position as a Correctional Field Officer with the Mississippi Department of Corrections (MDOC). He further advanced his career in 1994 by joining the 22nd District Attorney’s Office as the Chief Criminal Investigator, where he enhanced the office’s ability to process and prosecute cases with greater efficiency.
My return home
Back to Pike County
Driven by a desire to serve his home community, Johnny later accepted newly elected Sheriff Kenny Cotton’s offer to become his Chief Deputy Sheriff. This opportunity brought his career full circle, returning him to the same organization where he had started as a young officer, now in a leadership position. As Chief Deputy, he oversaw daily staff management, budget responsibilities, and represented the office at county supervisory meetings. With his passion for professional development, he ensured each staff member had access to training opportunities that would allow them to grow beyond their current positions. After honorably serving his community as a public servant for 35 years, Johnny entered semi-retirement to allow more time for family and other service opportunities.
Experienced and ready to serve
With over three decades of dedicated service and leadership experience, I stand ready to meet your needs with the same commitment and integrity that have defined my career.
Johnny O. Scott was born and raised in the Magnolia Community. He is the 5th of 8 children born to the late Otis and Auline Scott. He has been married to Felicia Scott, South Pike School District’s nurse, for over 25 years. Together they have three children, are raising two nephews, and six grandchildren. Johnny places high value on spending time with his family and loved ones.
My faith
His faith guides his service. He strives to live his life in a way that honors God and serves his fellow man. Johnny is an active member of New Zion Missionary Baptist Church and a life-long member of New Start M.B. Church (his family church), both located in Magnolia, MS.
Community service and fun
In his free time, Johnny enjoys hunting, playing golf and participating in tournaments, reading for both growth and enjoyment, motorcycling in the community and across the country, and listening to music. He is passionate about working with youth and has served on several boards, including the 4H Club and the Child Evangelism Fellowship (CEF) ministry.
Semi-retired
In his semi-retired state, Johnny currently works at Federal Courthouses as what he likes to call a “Judicial Protection Specialist.” He remains active in the community, regularly attending local events and lending a hand where needed. Johnny stands ready to help and can be reached at 601.341.0308 for those seeking his service
