Commission Reviews Jasper Police Department's Use of Noncertified Officers

During the recent Tennessee POST Commission meeting held on August 29, 2025, significant discussions centered around the issue of non-certified officers working in law enforcement roles, particularly in Jasper and South Pittsburgh. The meeting highlighted concerns regarding compliance with certification regulations, which are crucial for maintaining public safety and trust in law enforcement.

The investigation into the Jasper Police Department revealed that non-certified officers were reportedly working alone in patrol cars, albeit on shifts with certified officers. This practice raised alarms about adherence to state regulations governing officer certification. The chief of the Jasper Police Department initially denied any wrongdoing but later acknowledged the situation when confronted with evidence. The commission emphasized the importance of ensuring that all officers are properly certified and directed the department to rectify the situation immediately.

Similarly, the South Pittsburgh Police Department faced scrutiny for allowing non-certified officers to operate independently. The department's General Department Inspector (GDI) was informed of the violations and agreed to implement changes to ensure compliance with certification rules.

In response to these findings, the commission voted to conduct unannounced follow-up visits to both departments over the next three months to ensure that corrective actions are taken. This proactive approach aims to reinforce the standards of law enforcement in Tennessee and safeguard community interests.

The meeting concluded with a motion to accept the reports from both investigations, which was unanimously approved by the commission members. The discussions underscored the ongoing commitment of the POST Commission to uphold the integrity of law enforcement agencies across the state, ensuring that all officers meet the necessary qualifications to serve and protect their communities effectively.