The Jackson Police Department protects residents and visitors through proactive law enforcement, responsive emergency services, community-oriented policing, thorough crime prevention initiatives, and strategic public safety planning—ensuring a safer, stronger Jackson every day.
Tyree D. Jones is a dedicated law enforcement professional with over twenty-five years of service to the citizens of Jackson and Hinds County, Mississippi. He began his distinguished career with the Jackson Police Department in 2000, where he served in numerous capacities and rose through the ranks to become Commander of the Violent Crimes Section. Throughout his two decades with JPD, Jones established a reputation for professionalism, integrity, and effective leadership in criminal investigations and community policing.
In 2020, Jones transitioned to the Hinds County Sheriff’s Office, where he was appointed Captain of Investigations. His proven leadership and commitment to public safety led to his election as Hinds County Sheriff in December 2021, where he has since focused on modernizing operations, strengthening community trust, and overseeing key county initiatives, including the development of a new detention facility.
In August 2025, following the retirement of Chief Joseph Wade, Mayor John Horhn appointed Sheriff Jones as Interim Chief of Police for the City of Jackson. In this dual capacity, Jones continues to emphasize professionalism, accountability, and interagency collaboration to enhance safety and stability across both the City of Jackson and Hinds County.
Recognized statewide for his leadership, Sheriff Jones was honored by the Mississippi Senate in 2025 for twenty-five years of exemplary service in law enforcement. His tenure reflects an unwavering dedication to justice, transparency, and the protection of the communities he serves.
With over 30 years in law enforcement, Assistant Chief of Police, Wendell E. Watts is a seasoned leader in policing, security, and emergency management. A Mississippi native, he has dedicated his career to public safety and community engagement.
Assistant Chief Watts serves as Assistant Chief of the Operations Division. This Division consists of the Patrol Services Bureau and the Investigative Services Bureau. These division are the primary law enforcement components of the Jackson Police Department.
Assistant Chief Watts began with the Jackson Police Department, rising through the ranks to hold key leadership roles, including Commander of the Gun Interdiction Unit—where he led a 55% reduction in violent crime—and Precinct 4 Commander. He later served as Captain at the Hinds County Sheriff’s Department and Director of Security and emergency Management at Merit Health Central. As the first Chief of Police for Gluckstadt, he established the department, municipal court, and a 15,000-square-foot police complex.
A recipient of the Medal of Valor and International Law Enforcement Officer of the Year, Assistant Chief Watts remains committed to innovative policing and safer communities.
Contact (Email): wwatts@jacksonms.gov
RaSean Thomas
Fire Chief
Jackson Fire Department
555 S West St. Jackson, MS 39201
Phone O: 601-960-1392
Phone C: 601-960-1392
Assistant Chief of Police Vincent M. Grizzell is a dedicated law enforcement professional with deep roots in Jackson, Mississippi. He began his career with the Jackson Police Department in 1994 as part of the 20th Police Recruit Class and pursued higher education at Strayer University.
Throughout his tenure, Assistant Chief Grizzell has held various leadership roles, including Patrol Officer, Detective, Narcotics Sergeant, Patrol Lieutenant, and Precinct Commander. He has also served second in command of the S.W.A.T. team. As Assistant Chief of Administration, he oversees the critical support functions of the Administrative Services Bureau including the Real Time Command Center, Fleet Management, Public Safety Communications, and The Adult Holding Facility.
Beyond his career, he is an avid hunter, devoted family man, and brother to Jackson City Councilman Dr. Brian C. Grizzell. His leadership, dedication, and service make him a respected figure in the community and law enforcement.
Contact
Email: grizzell@city.jackson.ms.us
Phone: 601-960-1950
RaSean Thomas
Fire Chief
Jackson Fire Department
555 S West St. Jackson, MS 39201
Phone O: 601-960-1392
Phone C: 601-960-1392
Deputy Chief Tyrone J. Buckley, M.P.A., Ph.D(c), is a 24-year veteran of the Jackson Police Department, currently leading the Administrative Support Services Division. A native of Sharon, MS, he has been instrumental in strategic planning, resource management, and operational oversight since joining the department in 2001.
Deputy Chief Buckley oversees numerous critical units, including Fleet Management, the Real-time Crime Center, Public Information Office, Jail Operations, Records Management, Crisis Intervention, and multiple community outreach programs. His leadership ensures seamless coordination between executive leadership and department personnel.
An alumnus of Alcorn State University (B.A. Criminal Justice) and Belhaven University (M.P.A.), he is pursuing a Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration at Jackson State University. He is also an FBI Command College graduate and a certified law enforcement instructor.
Throughout his career, he has risen through the ranks—serving in Patrol, Investigations, and Administrative Bureaus—holding positions from Patrolman to Deputy Chief. Actively engaged in community service, he is a Phi Beta Sigma member and has contributed to organizations like Habitat for Humanity and the Salvation Army. His dedication to public service and leadership excellence continues to strengthen the Jackson Police Department.
Contact:
Email: tbuckley@city.jackson.ms.us
Phone: (601) 960-1951
Contact:
Email: marcoj@city.jackson.ms.us
Deputy Chief Sequerna Banks is a dedicated law enforcement professional with over 30 years of service. She began her career with the Jackson Police Department in 1995 as a patrol officer, quickly earning recognition as Metro Top Cop.
Rising through the ranks, she served as a Quality-of-Life Officer, Sergeant in both the Patrol Division and Property Crimes Unit, and later as a Lieutenant.
She went on to lead as Commander of Major Investigations and the Patrol Division before assuming her current role as Deputy Chief of The Investigative Services Bureau. She oversees the investigatory arm of the Jackson Police Department.
Committed to innovation and community safety, Deputy Chief Banks continues to serve with integrity and dedication.
Contact:
Email: wkendrick@city.jackson.ms.us
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Email: jlonie@jacksonms.gov
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Email: jtraylor@city.jackson.ms.us
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(Email): wwatts@jacksonms.gov
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