Last week, Jacksonville City Council recognized Chief Deloris O’Neal of her history-making appointment as a Chief with the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office. The appointment by Sheriff Mike Williams, makes O’Neal, the first female African-American Chief in the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office history. O’Neal has been on the force since 1997, she was first assigned as a patrol officer and integrated herself into the neighborhood to establish a rapport with the residents in one of the most crime-ridden areas in Jacksonville. Prior to her promotion, she served as assistant chief of Zone 5, which includes Northwest Jacksonville, New Town, and Baldwin.
Joining O’Neal for the celebration were her husband, family, friends, colleagues and community members from her beloved Sheriffs watch-group Zone 5. Former State Senator and Field Representative for U.S. Congressman Al Lawson Jr., Tony Hill read a congressional record statement from the congressman, and The Women for Civic Engagement and Jacksonville Brotherhood of Police both presented awards.
