NATCHEZ — On Wednesday, there was a new sheriff in town — well, it was actually more like 40 new sheriffs in town.

This year Natchez was host to the Mississippi Sheriffs’ Association Winter Conference, and more than 40 sheriffs from across the state were in town for the three-day event.

Adams County Sheriff Ronny Brown said while most of the conference was spent in various seminars, the event provides a valuable opportunity for sheriffs from all over the state to meet and exchange ideas.

“It’s extremely important for all of us,” Brown said.

Amite County Sheriff Tim Perkins helped to coordinate the event and said the was especially useful because it allows local law enforcement officials to learn about state and federal grants that will be available for the coming year.