Running for Office: Gonzales Police Chief

GONZALES — Sherman Jackson is seeking a second term as the chief of the Gonzales Police Department.

Jackson announced in a written statement that he is seeking re-election and qualified for the position on Aug. 15.

A U.S. Army veteran who served in Desert Storm, Jackson spent 14 years on the Gonzales Police Department before being elected as chief in 2008. He touted restructuring the department’s chain of command, which he said provided increased officer oversight and accountability, as a success during his first term.

He also said the city was made safer by increased patrols, traffic enforcement, neighborhood watch programs, community meetings and the creation of a new detective division.

“Gonzales is safer. Gonzales is stronger. The records speak for themselves,” Jackson said in a written statement. “This is a standard by which a chief of police measures his or her department’s success. The dynamics of a growing city whose residential and business population is flourishing requires the training, experience, vision and vigilance of proven leadership.”

Jackson said that he has proven he has those necessary qualities “by demanding that Gonzales is looked after and protected every day.”

A Gonzales native, Jackson said the city has grown and continues to do so, but it can still retain its “small-town values” while doing so. He said he will continue to build a stronger Gonzales through youth mentorship programs and collaboration with business and community leaders.

“My calling has been service, and I have been honored to achieve so many things during my time as Gonzales chief of police. That honor is down to your trust in me; a trust I am thankful for everyday,” Jackson said. “I am a servant leader and will continue this into my next term.”