Jackson Taps Former Charlottesville Police Chief as New Top Cop

Mayor Horhn nominates RaShall Brackney, a 30-year law enforcement veteran, to lead the Jackson Police Department.

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Jackson Mayor John Horhn has nominated RaShall Brackney, a former police chief in Charlottesville, Virginia and Washington, D.C., to become the new chief of the Jackson Police Department. Brackney, who has over three decades of law enforcement experience, would be the third woman to hold the position in Jackson if confirmed by the City Council.

Why it matters

The appointment of a new police chief is a critical decision for any city, as the police chief plays a key role in setting the tone for law enforcement and community relations. Brackney's background in community-focused policing could be valuable for Jackson as it works to rebuild trust between the police department and residents.

The details

Brackney spent 30 years with the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police before becoming police chief in Charlottesville and then at George Washington University in Washington, D.C. She holds a doctorate in instructional management and leadership and currently teaches at George Mason University. Brackney said she is "honored by the opportunity to serve the people of Jackson" and plans to focus on "building trust between officers and the people they serve."

  • Mayor Horhn announced Brackney's nomination on February 6, 2026.
  • Brackney's appointment must be confirmed by the Jackson City Council.

The players

John Horhn

The mayor of Jackson, Mississippi who nominated RaShall Brackney to be the city's new police chief.

RaShall Brackney

A 30-year law enforcement veteran who has served as police chief in Charlottesville, Virginia and Washington, D.C. She was nominated by Mayor Horhn to be the next Jackson police chief.

Tyree D. Jones

The current Jackson police chief and Hinds County sheriff, who congratulated Mayor Horhn on the selection of Brackney and pledged to work with her during the transition.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I'm honored by the opportunity to serve the people of Jackson and to work alongside the dedicated men and women of the Jackson Police Department. I've always believed that you can't have real public safety without strong community trust. I look forward to listening to residents, partnering with neighborhood leaders, and supporting officers as we work to make every part of this city safer.”

— RaShall Brackney (City of Jackson press release)

“Dr. Brackney brings decades of experience, a strong commitment to accountability, and a clear focus on building trust between officers and the people they serve. My priority is reducing crime, strengthening JPD, and making sure every neighborhood feels protected and respected as we move Jackson forward.”

— John Horhn, Mayor of Jackson (City of Jackson press release)

“Dr. Brackney brings a distinguished record of leadership and a strong commitment to community‑focused policing. I look forward to working with her as she proceeds through the confirmation process and during the transition phase to ensure stability, continuity, and a smooth transfer of leadership within the Jackson Police Department.”

— Tyree D. Jones, Jackson Police Chief and Hinds County Sheriff (Facebook)

What’s next

The Jackson City Council must confirm Brackney's appointment as the new police chief.

The takeaway

Brackney's background in community-focused policing could be valuable for Jackson as the city works to rebuild trust between the police department and residents. Her nomination signals the mayor's commitment to reducing crime and ensuring all neighborhoods feel protected and respected.