Ellington

With help from the community, newly appointed Jackson Police Department Precinct 1 Commander Jesse Robinson hopes to improve the quality of life for residents. Robinson, who served as Precinct 1 commander since 2009, entered his new position June 17. He replaces Donald Gater, who will now serve in the department's operations division.

The Edwards native has worked for the department for 28 years. His father was a city employee and inspired his son to serve the public. In 1994, Robinson became sergeant and later became lieutenant of precinct 2.

Through engaging the community, Robinson hopes that crime will continue to decrease in Precinct 1. As commander, Robinson is responsible for overseeing the entire precinct, managing his officers and implementing JPD strategies. He says that property crime and public nuances such as abandoned property and noise violations are current concerns of some residents.

"Quality-of-life issues can turn into crime," he said. "We like to grow that bond between the community so they can advise us on where these problems are."

Robinson encourages South Jackson residents to attend the department's monthly COPS meetings on the first Thursday of each month. At the meetings, citizens can address their concerns, ask questions and meet their neighbors.

"It's a great way to get together with the public, communicate and build trust," he says.

The 55-year-old lives in west Jackson with his wife, Ettress. He has two daughters, April and Temcula. April is a police officer in Precinct 2.

Attend the next COPS meeting at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, July 7, at Precinct 1 headquarters (810 Cooper Road).