Officer Gene Jackson has been with the Andalusia Police Department since October 2014. Officer Jackson began his career at APD and attended the Alabama Criminal Justice Training Center in Selma.

Officer Jackson works as a patrol officer under the direction of Sgt. Nic Ireland and Lt. Alice Donaldson on C Shift.

In addition to his duties as a patrol officer, he serves as a department field training officer.

He makes his home in Covington County with his wife and four children.

Officer Jackson enjoys working day shift as opposed to night shift, but doesn’t enjoy working weekend days.

His favorite hobby when not working is weightlifting.

He’s a fan of the Alabama Crimson Tide and Straughn Tigers.

His favorite meal would consist of steak, fries and finish with red velvet cake.

For anyone wanting to start a career in law enforcement, Officer Jackson gives the following advice, “I believe it is much more a calling than a career. This type of career takes a large amount of commitment, sacrifice, and dedication. Before coming to work at APD, I’d wanted to be a cop all my life. I feel it’s as simple as – it’s my duty…what I’m supposed to do.”

Officer Jackson’s plans include continuing his career at Andalusia PD and hopes to become a criminal or narcotics investigator.

“When you hire a young man and father like Officer Jackson you have to make sure they have the maturity and commitment to the career and have the ability to balance work and family,” said Chief Paul Hudson. “It’s difficult on any officer to put on a gun, badge and leave their family at home. It’s even harder, in some cases, on the family when that spouse/parent heads out the door to go to work – knowing the dangers the gun and the badge carry. Officer Jackson from the beginning has proven himself to be a committed and dedicated officer and leader in our department. He encourages each officer he comes in contact with, he boosts the morale of all of his shift mates and is very proactive in his duties.

“I know a lot of people would ask how we chose an officer as young as Officer Jackson to be a Field Training Officer but after watching his work, his want to continue to grow and dedication to the Department, we weren’t left with any question about his ability and were glad he accepted the responsibility,” he said. “We’re very proud to have Officer Jackson at APD and look forward to having him with us for a long time.”