The Early Word: A mayor, deputies get arrested; MPD cops are put on leave

Bianca Phillips By , Daily Memphian
Updated: March 31, 2026 6:28 AM CT | Published: March 31, 2026 6:20 AM CT Premium

Tired of being teased? Subscribe now to read the full Early Word.

It’s time for peanuts and Cracker Jack, Memphis. Today is Tuesday, March 31, and the Memphis Redbirds play their home opener at AutoZone Park tonight against the Norfolk Tides. 

Cops on leave after protest: Here’s the latest on the Memphis police officers involved with a violent escalation at a Saturday protest.

Arlington mayor arrested: Arlington Mayor Mike Wissman was allegedly shoplifting from Dillard’s. 

Deputies arrested for assault: Two Shelby County Sheriff’s deputies were arrested for allegedly assaulting a man who was working on a car.

New rules for ‘disruptive’ commissioners: The Shelby County Commission took steps to prevent another Edmund Ford Jr.-style outburst. 

Giveback-sies? Memphis-Shelby County Schools’ interim superintendent could have that “interim” title removed tonight — again. 

Iranians in Memphis: Five local Iranians shared their thoughts on the Iran War. 

Taking it to the Next Level: Sushi Jimmi is opening a new restaurant that combines fine dining and marshmallows.

What’s up, dock? River cruise boats that dock at Greenbelt Park have been tying up to trees, but conditions may soon improve.

More new Tigers: Memphis Tigers Coach Penny Hardaway’s next coaching team is coming together. 

Grizzlies get burned: The Phoenix Suns unleashed the heat on the Memphis Grizzlies Monday night.

Topics

The Early Word Subscriber Only

Thank you for reading The Daily Memphian. Your support is critical.

Did you know we are a 501(c)3 nonprofit news organization? We rely on a mix of revenue from subscriptions (50%), advertising, events and other earned income (25%) and fundraising (25%).

Please consider making a fully tax-deductible donation or other contribution to The Daily Memphian today. 

👉🏽 Your subscription pays for you to read all our journalism.

👉🏽 Your donation powers the work we do to reach everyone else with the news.

We believe an informed Memphis is a better Memphis. If you agree, join our growing list of donors now.

Bianca Phillips

Bianca Phillips

Bianca Phillips is a Northeast Arkansas native and longtime Memphian who’s worked in local journalism and PR for more than 20 years. In her days as a reporter, she covered everything from local government and crime to LGBTQ issues and the arts. She’s the author of “Cookin Crunk: Eatin’ Vegan in the Dirty South,” a cookbook of vegan Southern recipes.


Comments

Want to comment on our stories or respond to others? Join the conversation by subscribing now. Only paid subscribers can add their thoughts or upvote/downvote comments. Our commenting policy can be viewed here