The Jackson City Council has unanimously confirmed Lee Vance as Jackson's next police chief. Vance has been with the department nearly three decades.
Vance is a native son, born in the Capital City and according to council members who all spoke out in his behalf, is deeply rooted in the community and is supported by the citizens.
"All in favor. Item passes unanimously," said Jackson City Council president De'Keither Stamps.
Congratulations and a standing ovation followed the confirmation of Vance as chief of the Capital City's more than 500 member police force.
Five members of the Jackson city council supported the 27 year JPD veteran. Councilman Quentin Whitwell and councilwoman Margaret Barrett Simon did not attend the confirmation hearing.
"Citizens and law enforcement want the same thing, and that is a safe city where people can live, raise their family and thrive in their professions," said Vance.
The 56 year old Jackson native rose through the ranks starting as a recruit in 1987.
The father of five adult children promises to be a fierce protector and defender of the city.
"I want to throw this crime ridden albatross off our collective necks," said Vance. "I get tired of people talking about my home in a negative way. So we're going to do everything that we can do as a law enforcement agency to rid ourselves of that negative label."
Less than 24 hours before the hearing, Vance was working the streets alongside his officers on the hunt for accused kidnapper and murderer Dewayne Thompson.
Council members spoke about overwhelming support from the public when making their choice.
"From Jackson's heart we birth Jackson's future. That's the case with yourself. That's the case with our mayor, vice president, president, all of us here," said Council president De'Keither Stamps.
"It's not us sitting up here that made this decision," said council vice president Melvin Priester, Jr. "This is one where the people decided. And I think it's very important for the citizens to understand that you've picked a police chief, and now it's time for us to start really changing and working collaboratively with the department."
After the proceedings, the new chief joined his officers on a ride along to conduct check points throughout all four precincts. Chaplain Terri Moore leads prayer before many of these operations.
"His heart is for the people of Jackson Mississippi," said Chaplain Moore. "He served as assistant chief for four years and this is his season because he works with his people. If there's a problem in Precinct 3 he sends his whole task force over there, and they all tackle the problem. They work together. We're so thankful for what God is doing for the great City of Jackson Mississippi."
Vance also vows to continue to work closely with Hinds County Sheriff Tyrone Lewis and his department ,noting that they are both sons of this city with a responsibility to those who raised them.
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