JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – Jackson Mayor Chokwe A. Lumumba announced the new police chief of the Jackson Police Department (JPD).

Joseph Wade, who has served as the interim police chief, was named the official chief of police on Tuesday, August 22, 2023.

Wade stepped into the role as interim chief after former JPD Police Chief James Davis retired.

Lumumba praised Wade for his hard work, dedication and challenges he overcame during the search process. During his stint as interim chief, Wade brought back 13 experienced JPD officers.

“My leadership is simple. I lead from the rear. I lead from the front, and I lead by example. If it’s good, we’ll take ownership of it. If it’s bad, we’re just going to have to take large bites. All right? But we have to take ownership and responsibility for it,” he stated.

Wade said he wants to make JPD a premier, elite law enforcement agency in the state.