A press conference at a Jackson courthouse turned into chaos as a violent brawl erupted between the families of missing Mississippi corrections officer Latasha Crump Coleman and her estranged husband, Derrick Coleman. The incident, captured live by news crews including FOX 40 Jackson, has raised suspicions about the husband’s involvement in Latasha’s disappearance.
The fight, which included kicks, slaps, and body slams, started in the courthouse lobby before spilling outside. Video footage shows a woman jumping over a railing to strike a man, who then smacks her in the face before police intervene. According to Cedric Crump, Latasha’s brother, the Coleman family instigated the attack from behind.
Tensions between the two families have been high, with bailiffs previously escorting them out separate doors during prior hearings due to “obvious turmoil.” However, on this occasion, they were let out right behind each other, resulting in the altercation. The brawl left a juvenile with a bloody nose.
Latasha Crump Coleman, 46, has been missing since July 19. Her family reported her missing after she failed to show up for work without notifying anyone. Several concerning factors have emerged, including Latasha leaving behind her Apple Watch, her three dogs locked in a cage without food, and her brother hearing noises in the background during their last phone conversation.
Although no arrests have been made, Jackson Police Chief Joe Wade has identified Derrick Coleman as a person of interest. Court filings refer to him as a “present, extreme danger” to Latasha, who had obtained an order of protection against him due to alleged domestic abuse. Latasha had been in the process of divorcing Coleman, who is currently held in jail for violating the no-contact order.
The brawl occurred shortly after Coleman’s failed appeal against a 2022 conviction for violating the no-contact order. While out on bail, Coleman was supposed to wear a GPS ankle monitor, but he failed to comply, leading to the revocation of his bail. However, by the time the crackdown occurred, Latasha was already missing.
The Crump family suspects foul play and has launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise awareness about Latasha’s case. They believe that she wanted to get away from Coleman and that her disappearance may have been a result of her efforts to divorce him.
Following the brawl, five adults were arrested on disorderly conduct charges. Among them were Latasha’s 22-year-old son and her sister, who is also a prison guard.
As Latasha Crump Coleman’s case remains unsolved, her family continues to search for answers. They urge anyone with information to contact the Jackson police. The case highlights the challenges faced by victims of domestic violence and emphasizes the importance of raising awareness about such issues.
