Israel Smith was elected as Police Chief for the Town of Jonesboro in 2022. Since that time, the Jonesboro Police Department (JPD) has shown tremendous growth not only in numbers but in the services it performs. As we bring this year to a close and prepare for a new year, Smith has issued a statement regarding the growth of the JPD.

“The wheels of government turn very, very slowly, but in just three short years, we have accomplished a lot. We have maintained a 24/7 police department with one of the smallest per-capita budgets in the state, and based on my research, likely in the country. Despite those limitations, we have built and sustained a trained, ready, and dedicated staff. Just as important, our area is experiencing a shift in police culture that is not being seen in many places across the country.”

“Our focus is on professionalism, accountability, visibility, and service. We are present not just when something goes wrong but every day in the places that matter most. This is done with very limited resources. If we had the availability to house arrestees, we would see more improvement.”

“Over these three years, we have faced real pitfalls from agencies and individuals who should have been rallying with us rather than working against us. Even so, we stayed the course. We continued to do the right thing, guided by integrity, dedication, and a commitment to our citizens. We refused to allow distractions, politics, or resistance to derail progress.”

“We have issued raises to our officers, not as much as I would like yet, but far better than where we started. With the support of the Mayor, we secured a reliable fleet of much-needed vehicles.”

“We have graduated eight officers from the police academy, something that has not been accomplished by an administration in Jonesboro in many years. That achievement speaks to rebuilding, stability, and a long-term commitment to professional policing.”

“Beyond enforcement, we have focused on service and presence:
With the work of Assistant Chief Johnson, Officer Jackson, and the help of wonderful donors, we’ve been able to make Christmas memories via “Shop With A Cop” for over 200 children, with more than 100 served this year alone.
Approximately 90,000 dollars are collected annually in traffic citations, up from $40,000 in previous years.
Consistent presence in our local schools is maintained. We are at the schools somewhere in Jonesboro every single day.
Neighborhood walks, extra patrols, and focused attention are on our elderly residents.”

“We are one step away from regaining full access to our state system, something this department has not had since it was previously shut down. That milestone represents real progress, but it is only one step forward. There has been real growth in a short amount of time, but there is also tremendous room for growth. We fully intend to continue building, improving, and expanding our reach and effectiveness.”

“I say we because this has never been a one-man effort. This progress is the result of the work of my Assistant Chief, our dedicated officers, and the continued support of our Mayor. Teamwork made this possible.”

“With greater support, our presence could be felt in an even bigger way. This level of growth and commitment should not be unique to Jonesboro. It should be the standard for our whole parish. We have been the spearhead of change, growth, and unity.
Progress is possible.
Integrity matters.
And when people stay committed to doing the right thing, communities move forward.”

Israel Smith
Chief of Police
Town of Jonesboro