Wendell Watts, Assistant Chief of Police

With over 30 years in law enforcement, Assistant Chief of Police, Wendell E. Watts is a seasoned leader in policing, security, and emergency management. A Mississippi native, he has dedicated his career to public safety and community engagement.

Assistant Chief Watts serves as Assistant Chief of the Operations Division. This Division consists of the Patrol Services Bureau and the Investigative Services Bureau. These division are the primary law enforcement components of the Jackson Police Department.

Assistant Chief Watts began with the Jackson Police Department, rising through the ranks to hold key leadership roles, including Commander of the Gun Interdiction Unit—where he led a 55% reduction in violent crime—and Precinct 4 Commander. He later served as Captain at the Hinds County Sheriff’s Department and Director of Security and emergency Management at Merit Health Central. As the first Chief of Police for Gluckstadt, he established the department, municipal court, and a 15,000-square-foot police complex.

A recipient of the Medal of Valor and International Law Enforcement Officer of the Year, Assistant Chief Watts remains committed to innovative policing and safer communities.