Melvin Finn was appointed as the first black policeman in Amite on August 15, 1966. His duties were to patrol the black areas of Amite. He was ordered to limit any action to the black sections of the town and black citizens. Of course, after establishing himself as a policeman capable of handling any detail these restrictions were brought forward and conditions were changed.
Officer Finn was named Assistant Chief of Police in 1981. He retired in August 1990 after serving 24 years. He was married to Ora L. Finn. They have three children and three grandchildren. Melvin is a member of Butlers AME Zion Church in Amite.
SourceL The Collection of Henry Jackson.
