By 
December 2, 2024
Do you remember playing cops and robbers as a child? The thrill of the chase and the excitement of pretending to keep the peace sparked many childhood dreams.
For Huntsville Police Department (HPD)‘s Sgt. Chris Jackson, this childhood game ignited a lifelong passion for law enforcement. That passion has led him to a new role as Public Information Officer (PIO) at HPD. After years of experience in patrol, he is excited about the next challenge.
Unlike patrol, which follows a clear routine, the PIO position lacks a “playbook.” It requires adaptability, collaboration across departments and a focus on community relations.
“You have to have your hands in everything,” Jackson said.
A Legacy of Service
Jackson’s connection to law enforcement runs deep. His father served as deputy chief at HPD, but Jackson kept this fact quiet during his application process.
“I didn’t even tell anyone I applied until after my interview and polygraph test,” he said.
He wanted to earn his place at HPD based on his own merit, not family connections.
“I didn’t want people to think I got there because of somebody else,” he explained.
Expectations vs. Reality
When Jackson first joined HPD, he envisioned an action-packed career filled with chases and intense situations. However, reality brought some unexpected elements.
“I didn’t realize I would have to go do something and then write everything down,” he said with a laugh.
Having grown up in Brownsboro with a relaxed approach to English class, Jackson found report writing to be a challenge. But his passion for being part of something bigger than himself kept him motivated.
“It was a desire to be part of something larger than myself,” he said.
Making an impact
Over his 13 years at HPD, Jackson has witnessed firsthand how law enforcement can deeply impact individuals.
One encounter stands out: During a routine traffic stop in his third year, a tense situation turned into a meaningful conversation. The individual shared his personal struggles, and months later, Jackson ran into the man in a restaurant.
“He told me how that incident completely changed his life,” Jackson said, adding the man reconnected with his children and enrolled in college. “That’s when I realized there’s an impact being made here on an individual level.”
Such encounters illustrate how personal connections in law enforcement can create meaningful change. For Jackson, these moments reaffirm that police work can be just as impactful on a small scale as it is on a societal level.
As a father, he also recognizes the importance of setting a positive example for his children. 
“Having kids makes you aware of the impact you have every single day,” he shared. “Your children view you as the hero you hope the public sees you as.”
