Howard Payne University’s Department of Public Safety swore in Lieutenant Johnny Jackson as their newest officer on Friday morning.
Judge Stephen Ellis performed the swearing in and Oath of Office in the 35th District Court Room of the Brown County Courthouse on Friday with department officials and Jackson’s daughter, Jeanette Lancaster of Deleon present. Lieutenant Jackson’s wife Judy was unable to attend the ceremony due to health issues.
Jackson was raised in May, Texas and has spent most of his life as a Brownwood resident. He comes to HPUDPS after retiring last week from the Brownwood Police Department where he served a total of 16 years. He previously worked for the Winters Police Department in 1994 where he served nearly two years. His rank of Lieutenant is continued in his position with HPUDPS. He becomes the third commissioned officer of the department, which has an additional staff of three non-commissioned peace officers. Jackson’s first day with HPUDPS will be Monday, August 11, 2014.
HPUDPS Chief Paul Lilly pinned Jackson’s new badge and also his lieutenant insignia bars, which were a gift from Lilly. These bars were given originally to Lilly from a Sheriff in East Texas when he first became a Lieutenant himself.
Chief Lilly also presented Jackson with a certificate of commission with the HPUDPS.
Jackson fills the last position of commissioned officers in the HPUDPS. Chief Lilly explained when the department was originally formed; it was the university’s intention to have three commissioned officers and three non-commissioned peace officers.
“We are thrilled to have someone with Johnny’s experience to join us,” said Lilly who explained that Jackson will work the night shift as the senior commissioned officer.
After Jackson’s swearing in ceremony, HPUDPS Assistant Chief Bob Pacatte was also presented his certificate of commission, which as Lilly explained was about a year overdue.
Pictured above is Jackson being sworn in by Judge Ellis. Also pictured is Chief Lilly holding the Bible. Below are more photos of the ceremony.
Above, Chief Lilly pins Lieutenant bars on Jackson’s uniform.
Jackson is presented a certificate of commission.
Assistant Chief Bob Pacatte is presented a certificate of commission by Lilly.
