JACKSON, Miss. ( WJTV ) – The Jackson Police Department (JPD) continues to commit to a better future for the residents of Jackson. Jackson Police Chief Joseph Wade said the advancements in manpower, technology and collaborative efforts have the department trending in an upward direction.

After two recent shootings on I-220 ended in quick arrests, Wade said JPS will continue to ramp up efforts on the highways to protect the thousands of travelers that commute throughout the city.

"We have our traffic unit that is working at I-220, I-55, I-20. I've also met with the colonel of the Highway Patrol. You'll see the Highway Patrol out as well, working on the highways. And it's something that we met and talked about a couple of months ago. So, it's going to be a collaborative effort between JPD, Mississippi Highway Patrol and Capitol police," the police chief said.

JPD to increase number of officers in patrol vehicles in high crime areas

With one incident involving a stolen car, Wade said the investments JPD are making to fight crime is helping JPD gain an advantage over the bad actors in the capital city.

"I'm excited about the new 15 vehicles that were approved by the mayor and the City Council. Those new 15 vehicles will display the new look of the Jackson Police Department. I know the officers are happy and excited that we're going to retire the old stripe. They have a new look, but I think that's going to represent a new day in the City of Jackson and a new day at the Jackson Police Department. So, I'm so excited about all the things we have coming up. October, November and December will be my community engagement blitz," Wade said.

The police chief said these next few months will help greatly improve the relationship with the community and show the residents of Jackson that JPD can compete with top law enforcement agencies across the country.

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