A probationary Columbus Fire and Rescue firefighter was arrested early Saturday morning for allegedly driving under the influence.
Jacorey Douglas, of Starkville, is charged with DUI-first offense, a misdemeanor, as well as driving with no headlights or insurance and speeding 21-30 mph above the speed limit, according to Lowndes County Adult Detention Center booking information. He was booked shortly after 2 a.m.
Fire Chief Duane Hughes said he was informed of the arrest Saturday morning. While he is “gathering the facts” in regards to the arrest, Hughes said “if this is true,” he intends to request Douglas’ termination during executive session at Tuesday’s city council meeting.
“I also informed Sheriff Eddie Hawkins that CFR wanted no special treatment for Firefighter Douglas,” Hughes wrote in a text to The Dispatch on Saturday. “We want everything done by the book.”
Hughes said Douglas has been employed at CFR since Nov. 3, 2025, though he has not yet completed benchmarks required to end his probationary period, including finishing the basic firefighter course and the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians exam.
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Quality, in-depth journalism is essential to a healthy community. The Dispatch brings you the most complete reporting and insightful commentary in the Golden Triangle, but we need your help to continue our efforts. In the past week, our reporters have posted 48 articles to cdispatch.com. Please consider subscribing to our website for only $2.30 per week to help support local journalism and our community.
