U.S. Department of Labor Investigation Results in Mississippi Sheriff’s Department Paying $51,389 in Back Wages for Overtime Violations

MENDENHALL, MS – After an investigation by the U.S. Department of Labor's Wage and Hour Division (WHD), the Simpson County Sheriff's Department – based in Mendenhall, Mississippi – has paid $51,389 in back wages to 43 employees for violating the overtime requirements of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).

WHD investigators found the employer misapplied an overtime exemption that applies to law enforcement and fire protection employees. Specifically, the employer failed to pay overtime to employees who took time off during a given pay period even though the employee actually worked over 40 hours during that pay period. Additional overtime violations occurred when the employer noted the start and end dates of the pay period inaccurately.

"The resolution of this case serves as a reminder for local, county, and state governments that they are subject to the Fair Labor Standards Act's requirements," said Wage and Hour District Director Audrey Hall, in Jackson, Mississippi. "We encourage all employers to make use of the resources we provide to help them understand their responsibilities and operate in compliance with the law. Violations like those found in this case can be avoided."

For more information about the FLSA and other laws enforced by the Wage and Hour Division, contact the toll-free helpline at 866-4US-WAGE (487-9243). Employers who discover overtime or minimum wage violations may self-report and resolve those violations without litigation through the PAID program. Information is also available at https://www.dol.gov/whd.