Following the retirement of Jackson Director of Police and Fire Services Matthew Heins, his second in command Elmer Hitt was recently named acting director.
Currently serving as the deputy director, Hitt will oversee all director duties and serve in the interim until such time a permanent appointment is made to the position vacated by Heins.
Heins retired from his position to become Security Manager for Henry Ford Allegiance Health. He will lead a team of security officers who monitor the health system’s properties in the Jackson area.
Heins began his career as a cadet in the police department in 1989. He was hired as police chief in 2007 before the position of director of police and fire services was created in 2012 – a position he was subsequently appointed.
Hitt was named acting director Jan. 6. Hitt, along with Heins, has served the Jackson Police Department for his entire career.
City Manager Patrick Burtch has said there are qualified internal applicants for the permanent position which he hopes to fill in the next few weeks.
Elmer Hitt told JTV he is an applicant for the position.
