WELCOME OFFICER JONES

by Nancy Hamilton

Jennifer Jones is our new Barron Park (PAPD) police officer, focusing on pedestrian, motor vehicle and bicycle traffic safety and enforcement. She won't be spending her entire time here, but at least one hour per day will be devoted solely to Barron Park. Complaints from Barron Park residents will be directed to Jennifer.

Officer Jones grew up in the Sunnyvale area, and attended college at San Diego and San Jose State, majoring in physical education. She was involved in the computer industry until five years ago, when at age 29 she realized if she didn't do what she wanted to do -- become a police officer, she might never do it.

Jennifer was with the Contra Costa Sheriff's department for two years, then joined the Palo Alto force.

"The reasons Palo Alto has such a low violent crime rate, are that Palo Alto attracts and hires only the best officers, has an exceptional training program, and makes sure there are enough of them," says Jennifer. "Also, the Red Team, comprised from several different agencies and led by Sergeant Terry More (PAPD), did a lot to curb crime in the city of Palo Alto and nearby communities."

"The Team, dedicated to crime suppression and drug enforcement, let crooks know that if they are out there, we will find them."

Since October 1, Jennifer is off the graveyard shift, working days, and will be one of five officers/agents assigned to motorcycles. "I'd had experience riding bikes, but I bought a big one to practice on," she said. "We'll be back in our cars during really bad weather."

Jennifer's family lives on the Peninsula. She is the only one involved in police work. "I have a golden retriever named Sunny who's not the best watch dog," said Jones. "I recently sent someone to my home to change the locks. They entered the back yard where Sunny greeted them with a wagging tail!"

To reach officer Jones please call 329-2413.

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