By Robert Jordan
Dunn Daily Record
DUNN – Fresh on the heels of announcing the retirement of Chief Clark White, Dunn City Manager Steven Neuschafer announced that he selected Maj. Cary Ann Jackson to become Dunn Police Department’s new chief effective Oct. 1.
Since it’s incorporation in February 1887, Dunn has never had a female as its chief law enforcement officer.
“Major Jackson started with the Dunn Police Department in January of 1998. She has received many promotions throughout the years leading to her promotion from Lieutenant to Major in 2021,” Neuschafer said. “Jackson has worked hard to enhance her educational experiences including recently earning a Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Public Administration from Liberty University.
“She has a great relationship with the officers in the department and has received several letters of commendation throughout her career.”
Hometown proud
Jackson is the daughter of Hugh and Sylvia Jackson and is a lifelong resident of Dunn. Educated in Harnett County Schools, Cary graduated from Triton High School in Erwin.
After graduation, she attended and graduated from Johnston Community College with a certificate in basic law enforcement training in 1997. Since 1998 she has been a sworn law enforcement officer with a 24-year career of work, training and higher education.
Jackson admitted Thursday’s announcement was a longtime dream come true.
“Long ago, I left it up to the LORD to place me where He wanted me to be,” Jackson said. “In the meantime, I just strived to be the best I could be at all I did.”
Jackson is married and a mother of three. Ester, Eli and J.J. are the children who welcome her home after every shift. She says she enjoys being a mom more than any other calling in her life.
Success and team work
Jackson is a firm believer that success comes from team work.
“I would not be where I am today without the support and enthusiasm of the men and women on our team at Dunn Police Department,” she said. “The entire agency has come a long way under the leadership of former Chief (Chuck) West and Chief (Clark) White.
“The Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA) credentialing of Dunn Police Department standardized many procedures, policies and regulations in the agency,” she continued. “When situations are handled uniformly and in established practice, everyone is able to perform at a better level of service to the city.”
Jackson will take the oath of office as Dunn’s chief of police on Oct. 1, the date of White’s retirement.
“The city of Dunn is fortunate to have such a qualified candidate in the department who knows and cares for our community,” Neuschafer said. “Major Jackson has proven herself and I have no doubt she will do a fantastic job as the department’s next leader.”
