Jackson Police Chief Joseph Wade is once again advocating for pay raises for his officers in an effort to maintain the department’s current momentum. During budget presentations, Wade emphasized the importance of additional raises to ensure the future leadership and success of the Jackson Police Department. He stressed that these raises are crucial to retaining officers and preventing them from seeking opportunities in other departments, even if those departments offer lower pay.
Wade pointed out that while some neighboring communities may offer competitive salaries, the workload and demands placed on Jackson police officers far exceed those of other agencies. The Jackson Police Department responds to an average of 6,000 calls for service, with even the slowest precinct handling between five and 600 calls per week. This high volume of calls underscores the need for adequate compensation to support the officers‘ dedication and hard work.
The proposed raises would see an average increase of around $2,000, with pay for recruits rising from $48,000 to $50,000 and pay for police officers from the Jackson Police Training Academy increasing from $49,500 to $51,000. The chart provided outlines the proposed raises for various positions within the department, reflecting the commitment to rewarding officers at all levels.
Since assuming the role of police chief, Wade has overseen a significant increase in the number of officers, rising from 221 to 263. This growth has enabled the implementation of specialized units such as the Cold Case Unit and neighborhood anti-crime unit, as well as bolstering the Investigation Division to improve the homicide solve rate. However, the influx of new officers has also presented challenges, particularly in terms of vehicle availability.
Currently, the department faces a shortage of operable vehicles, with only 213 available for 263 employees. Additionally, 315 JPD vehicles are inoperable and awaiting repairs at the city’s garage. To address this issue, Wade is requesting an increase in the vehicle purchasing budget to $750,000, allowing for the acquisition of 15 new vehicles. He emphasized the importance of having the necessary resources to support the department’s operations and ensure officers can effectively carry out their duties.
In addition to vehicle procurement, Wade is seeking additional funding for towing expenses, license plate readers, and „safe city“ cameras to enhance public safety efforts. These investments are crucial in combating auto thefts and carjackings that pose a significant threat to the community. By equipping the department with advanced technology and resources, Wade aims to make a tangible impact on reducing crime and improving overall safety in Jackson.
As budget deliberations continue, the city must finalize its budget before the start of the 2025 fiscal year on October 1. The decisions made during this process will have a direct impact on the resources available to the Jackson Police Department and its ability to effectively serve the community. By advocating for pay raises and additional funding for essential equipment, Chief Wade is demonstrating his commitment to supporting his officers and enhancing public safety in Jackson.