Black History Month Spotlight: Rochell Staten
JACKSON, Tenn. — It’s time to spotlight one of our neighbors, presented to you by the Tennessee Lottery.
Each week in February, WBBJ 7 Eyewitness News will celebrate Black History Month by introducing you to a member of our community here in West Tennessee.
This week’s spotlight is the Jackson Police Department’s first Black female patrol lieutenant as she continues to make a difference for the citizens of Jackson as well as officers at the department.
Her leadership skills earned her the recommendation from the department to attend the prestigious FBI National Academy.
SEE ALSO: JPD Lieutenant graduates from FBI National Academy
RochelleStaten graduated from the 11 week program on December 12, 2024. The academy hosts law enforcement leaders from all around the world and holds instruction on terrorism studies, behavioral science, forensic science and intelligence science.
Staten says earning her promotions was not easy and she worked hard for each stripe. She encourages others, especially young, Black females, to pursue their dreams and know there is a place for them in law enforcement.
“There have been some glass ceilings broken for you and some concrete ceilings broken for you,” said Staten.
Although law enforcement was not her first career choice, she says does not regret her decision to enter the field and uses the chance to make a difference.
“I like to think that everybody that I have encountered, regardless of whether I took them to jail or not–that I left something good behind. I don’t know no other way to explain it so, I always try to give you, that person in the back seat of my car, advice that ‘This is what you need to do. This is how you need to get your license back’,” said Staten.
Outside the uniform, Staten has also worked with others to create a recovery home for women experiencing homelessness and completing drug rehabilitation programs.
Remember to stay tuned next week to meet another neighbor as we continue to celebrate Black History Month!
SEE ALSO: Black History Month Spotlight: Dr. Margaret Taylor
