June 5, 2025 – Gov. Tate Reeves has announced the appointment of Thomas Michael Reed of Hattiesburg to the Office of Circuit Judge for the 12th Circuit Court District, which serves Forrest and Perry counties. This appointment fills a vacancy created by the retirement of the Honorable Robert B. Helfric.
“Michael’s years of experience prosecuting criminals and trying cases will serve the 12th Circuit Court District well,” said Reeves. “Mississippi residents deserve a strong criminal justice system – that’s why I’ve appointed people like Michael. I know his expertise and experience will strengthen the 12th Circuit Court District. I thank him for what he’s done to uphold the rule of law and for his judicial service in the years to come.”
Michael has been a practicing attorney since 1998. He currently serves as a Municipal Court Judge for both Petal and Richton. He previously served as a city prosecutor for both Richton and Petal, prosecuting thousands of misdemeanor cases such as DUIs, drug offenses, and assaults. Michael has tried, to conclusion, dozens of felony criminal cases, including cases of murder, rape, aggravated assault, kidnapping, and drug possession, in both state and federal court.
Reed earned a J.D. from the University of Mississippi and B.S. from Mississippi State University.
Reed’s term will begin on July 1, 2025, and will fill the remainder of the four-year term.
