JPD Planning More Saturation Operations
JACKSON, Tenn.– Suspects arrested in the top secret Jackson police operation over the weekend made their first court appearance Monday. The city of Jackson put more than 100 officers on the streets at the same time Saturday and Sunday. It was standing room only inside the jail for video arraignments Monday morning. Jackson police arrested 39 people and issued 86 traffic citations during a 14 hour operation from Saturday to Sunday. “They know the hot areas in our city as far as criminal activity and that’s the areas they hit,” said Mayor Jerry Gist. Officers arrested people on everything from drugs to shoplifting charges. Gist wants to send criminals and the community a message. “They’re not going to win,” Gist said. “They’re not going to win this in this city.” Gist confirms the city spend thousands of dollars in overtime to make the operation possible. “We‘re willing to spend that money because it‘s just important,” Gist said. “It‘s an important thing that we create a safe environment for our people.” Residents of Jackson agree with the Mayor. “I think that’s a good way to use the extra money if they’ve got any,” said Evelyn Richardson, of Jackson. “It’s safe,” Richardson said. “I think it puts you in a safer position.” Gist wants residents and visitors to feel safe in Jackson. “If they need to pursue criminal activities somewhere it’s not going to be in Jackson, Tennessee,” said Gist. The mayor says the city plans to do similar operations in the future.
