JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland visited the City of Jackson on Wednesday. He commended several law enforcement officials before conducting a closed meeting with leaders.

Garland spoke of departments’ successes across Mississippi, as well as challenges that law enforcement officials face daily. Some of the topics included civil rights violations, machine gun conversions, fentanyl and corruption of public offices.

Garland’s visit comes just days after the Justice Department announced an investigation into the Rankin County Sheriff’s Office.

The attorney general also announced initiatives to help the City of Jackson. The DOJ awarded nearly $300,000 to the city to assist with forensic science capabilities.

“We are committed to working with local officials, deputies and the community to conduct a comprehensive investigation. The Justice Department is also committed to providing resources necessary to support public safety here in Mississippi. Earlier this year, the Justice Department added Jackson to its violent crime initiative. That initiative surges law enforcement tools and resources to target gangs and other violent groups that threaten our communities,” Garland said.

Jackson was also granted $100,000 to develop a comprehensive plan for public safety initiatives.