Jackson Police Chief Outlines New Public Safety Approach

Chief RaShall Brackney aims to address root causes of crime in the city.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 7:08pm

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An extreme close-up of a police badge or handcuffs against a pitch-black background, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash to create a stark, gritty, investigative aesthetic.Chief Brackney's new public safety approach aims to address the underlying factors contributing to crime in Jackson.Jackson Today

Jackson's new police chief, RaShall Brackney, is ready to implement a fresh public safety strategy to combat crime in the city. Brackney plans to examine how issues like blight and truancy can contribute to criminal behavior, and she intends to work closely with officers assigned to federal and state task forces to gain a better understanding of ongoing investigations.

Why it matters

Chief Brackney's approach represents a shift from traditional law enforcement tactics, focusing more on addressing the underlying social and environmental factors that can lead to criminal activity. This holistic public safety strategy could have a significant impact on reducing crime rates in Jackson if implemented effectively.

The details

Brackney says she wants to take a 'whole new public safety approach' to fighting crime in Jackson. This includes looking at how issues like blight and truancy can contribute to criminal behavior, and meeting regularly with Jackson police officers assigned to federal and state task forces to stay informed on their investigations. The chief also views the Capital Police as a resource to help Jackson officers do their jobs better, rather than as a separate entity operating only in certain neighborhoods.

  • Brackney is approaching her first full week on the job as Jackson's new police chief.

The players

RaShall Brackney

The new police chief of Jackson, Mississippi, who is implementing a public safety-focused approach to fighting crime in the city.

Capital Police

The police force that operates in certain neighborhoods of Jackson, which Brackney sees as a resource to help the Jackson police department rather than a separate entity.

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What they’re saying

“I want to take what I see as a whole new public safety approach to fighting crime.”

— RaShall Brackney, Police Chief

What’s next

Chief Brackney plans to meet regularly with Jackson police officers assigned to federal and state task forces to stay informed on their investigations and how the department can better support their work.

The takeaway

Chief Brackney's focus on addressing the root causes of crime through a public safety-oriented approach represents a significant shift in Jackson's law enforcement strategy. If implemented effectively, this holistic strategy could lead to meaningful reductions in the city's crime rates.