Police department honors employees

The Jackson Police Department’s Annual Awards Ceremony was held on May 10, when employees were recognized for exemplary performance and commitment to serving Jackson residents.

Special recognition was awarded to Detective Richard (Rick) Burkart, 2018 Officer of the Year; Christopher Mizner, Reserve Officer of the Year; and Records Management Supervisor KayCe Parsons, Civilian Employee of the Year.

Burkart was hired as an officer in 2007, and promoted to the rank of Detective in 2017.  He previously was selected as 2014 Officer of the Year; receiving this honor twice, demonstrates his professionalism and work ethic.  Above and beyond regular duties, Burkart is a current member of the Special Response Team, has served on the Jackson Narcotics Enforcement Team, and is a firearms and use of force instructor. 

Mizner began his career as a Reserve Officer in 2017.  He volunteered over 75 hours towards special events and over 250 total in 2018, including his time partnering with an officer on patrol. His dedication to the Department and to the community in his first full year serving as a Reserve Officer is evident, and his effort has contributed to the collective success of the Reserve Program. 

Parsons has worked for the Department since 2003. Her attention to detail, knowledge in nearly all the aspects of the department and her drive to hone her skills and talents has all worked toward the betterment of the department as a whole.  Her willingness to help out where needed and make changes to improve efficiency is a common occurrence.