End of Watch: August 15, 2025

One year ago, the Florida Department of Corrections and the greater corrections community suffered the line-of-duty loss of Correctional Officer James Alexander Jackson Sr. of Hardee Correctional Institution.

Officer Jackson was only 31 years old and had served with the Florida Department of Corrections for nine months. Although his career had only just begun, his dedication, determination, and positive spirit had already made a lasting impression on those who trained and served alongside him.

On August 15, 2025, Officer Jackson was participating in tryouts for the Rapid Response Team–Special Operations Team at Hardee Correctional Institution. After completing the required physical fitness test, he began showing signs of distress and became incoherent. Emergency measures were immediately initiated, and he was transported for medical treatment. Tragically, Officer Jackson died as a result of heatstroke later that day.

A Spirit That Will Always Be Remembered

Born on September 17, 1993, Officer Jackson was remembered as someone who approached his training with enthusiasm, determination, and a smile. He was eager to learn and had a natural ability to bring laughter and encouragement to those around him.

Academy instructor Jessica Selph shared this reflection following his passing:

“I’m truly blessed to have been one of Officer Jackson’s instructors throughout the academy. He was always up front, ready to learn, and always smiling. When something clicked, he would always say, ‘Oh, oh, ok!’ He made us laugh—even when he came back to the compound. He will truly be missed, but never 10-7. He will always walk with us, no matter where we go. Officer Jackson will ALWAYS have our six.”

Her words reflect the impact Officer Jackson made in such a short time. His service cannot be measured only by the length of his career, but by the dedication he demonstrated, the friendships he formed, and the lives he touched.

Honored at PROJECT 2000 XXXVII

This past June, Officer Jackson was among the fallen correctional professionals honored at PROJECT 2000 XXXVII in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Surrounded by surviving families, correctional professionals, honor guard members, and supporters from across the country, his name was spoken, his service was recognized, and his sacrifice was honored. The ceremony served as a solemn reminder that Officer Jackson remains part of the correctional family and that those who serve will never allow his memory to fade.

For the Correctional Peace Officers Foundation, honoring Officer Jackson at PROJECT was more than a single moment of remembrance. It was a promise to continue standing beside those who loved him and to ensure that his life, service, and sacrifice are never forgotten.

Never Forgotten

One year later, we remember a young officer whose career held tremendous promise. We remember his strength, his smile, his willingness to learn, and his desire to serve at an even greater level.

The Correctional Peace Officers Foundation joins Officer Jackson’s family, friends, colleagues, academy instructors, the staff of Hardee Correctional Institution, and the entire Florida Department of Corrections in honoring his life and legacy.

Correctional Officer James Alexander Jackson Sr. answered the call to serve. His sacrifice will forever remain part of the history of the Florida Department of Corrections and in the hearts of the correctional community.

Rest easy, Officer Jackson. You are never 10-7, and you will never be forgotten.

Correctional Officer James Alexander Jackson Sr.
September 17, 1993 – August 15, 2025