Keith Jackson’s dream was always clear—to follow in his father’s footsteps and become a police officer. But just a year after graduating from high school, a life-altering tragedy almost shattered that dream and nearly claimed his life in the process.
In 1992, Jackson was involved in a severe car accident and at just 19 years old, he found himself in a battle for survival. The crash left him physically and emotionally scarred, derailing the plans he had so carefully laid out for his future.
“I was spared, because I knew I had more to do,” Jackson said. “After the crash, I was so angry because the crash was not in my plan. I allowed the crash to make me bitter which derailed my drive. Over time, I was able to able to open myself up to positive motivation and readjust my thought process to get back on track.”
Despite the adversity, Jackson’s resolve to serve his community and pursue a career in law enforcement never wavered. If anything, the challenges he faced only deepened his determination to make a difference. The accident became the catalyst for his commitment to personal growth and service.
“I remember there were so many times I wanted to give up. I had to remind myself that excuses only satisfy the person that makes them,” Jackson said. “If I don’t push myself, who will? I wanted to be proud of myself and wanted to make my parents proud of me.
The road to recovery was long, but the support of his family carried him through. He achieved his dream of becoming a law enforcement officer and today serves as the Chief of Police for the Homerville Police Department.
“The feeling of being a law enforcement officer was breathtaking,” he said. “I continued to make changes in my career and discovered the need to share my journey in hopes of motivating others.”
In his pursuit of professional development, Jackson found Faulkner University where he earned a Master of Justice Administration in 2024, along with the prestigious Doctor Lou Harris Academic Achievement Award—a testament to his academic excellence and dedication. He is also a proud member of the National Society of Leadership and Success.
Today, Jackson is a driving force in both law enforcement and education. The Homerville Police Department has partnered with Faulkner to provide officers with opportunities to pursue their degrees, further advancing their careers and expertise in the field.
Throughout his distinguished career, Jackson has worked in federal, state, county, and municipal roles including positions as a correctional, jail and patrol officer, narcotics investigator, detective, patrol corporal, sergeant, captain, and most recently, chief of police. With each new role, Jackson has taken on more responsibility and leadership, always with the goal of serving his community to the best of his ability.
