During the recent Sunnyvale Town Council meeting, a significant moment unfolded as the council recognized the promotion of two officers within the Sunnyvale Police Department. Sergeant Jay Shepherd and Sergeant Jay Elliott were honored for their advancement from the rank of corporal to sergeant, marking a notable achievement in their law enforcement careers.

The promotion process, which began in May, saw four applicants vying for the two available sergeant positions. Ultimately, Shepherd and Elliott distinguished themselves as the top candidates. Sergeant Shepherd brings over eight years of experience to his new role, having served as a field training officer and trained numerous patrol officers. His career began with the Hutto Police Department in 2017, followed by stints at the Murphy Police Department and the Sunnyvale Police Department, where he has been since April 2021.

Sergeant Elliott's journey in law enforcement started at the Nacogdoches County Jail before he transitioned to the Dallas County Sheriff's Office, where he completed his training in 2016. After a period of field training, he joined the Sunnyvale Police Department in 2020 and has held various roles, including patrol officer and school resource officer.

The ceremony included a personal touch, with Sergeant Shepherd being pinned by his wife, Melissa, and Sergeant Elliott by his son, Isaiah, symbolizing the support of their families in their professional achievements.

This recognition not only highlights the individual accomplishments of these officers but also reflects the commitment of the Sunnyvale Police Department to fostering leadership and excellence within its ranks. As the community continues to grow, the leadership of dedicated officers like Shepherd and Elliott will be crucial in maintaining public safety and trust.