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Bailey: Barton sends warning to evil-doers traveling from the north

By , Daily Memphian Updated: December 12, 2025 9:00 AM CT | Published: December 12, 2025 9:00 AM CT
Clay Bailey
Daily Memphian

Clay Bailey

Clay Bailey, a lifelong Memphian, has worked as a reporter in the city four decades. He concentrated on suburban coverage for the bulk of his career, except for a stint as sports editor of The Daily Memphian when it launched in September 2018. He now is suburban editor and also serves as a freelance sports writer for The Associated Press.

You have to say this about DeSoto County prosecutor Matthew Barton – his actions draw attention.

Some like the idea of his tough-on-criminals approach, particularly against the supposed bad folks traveling from Shelby County/Memphis intruding in his county. Others view Barton’s rhetoric as grandstanding and selective targeting.

Or playing to his audience.

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