Addie McCluskey

Elmore Autauga News

Autauga County Commissioner for District One Rusty Jacksland celebrates retirement from the Prattville Police Department (PPD), Dec. 1, 2025, at Doster Community Center.

Jacksland spent 25 years with the PPD, joining the drug enforcement unit as an investigator in 2009 before transitioning to serve as a school resource officer at Prattville Junior High School in 2019.

“I can tell you that wherever Rusty goes, wherever his job assignment is, he is going to make it fun,” said PPD Assistant Chief Jeff Hassell. “He’s been a great mentor for the kids and a great ambassador for the police department.”

After Hassell’s remarks, numerous PPD officers came forward to share memories and express their appreciation for Jacksland’s service. Prattville Mayor Bill Gillespie and Representative Jerry Starnes also spoke, presenting resolutions recognizing his dedication to both the department and the community.

“Rusty has been a mentor to and inspired so, so many that the legacy will live on,” said Gillespie. “When you look around the room, all the people he has here speaks volumes.”

Attendees were then invited to share personal stories, offering heartfelt congratulations and reflections. One of the most touching moments came from Jalon Lucas, a 16-year-old student at Prattville High School.

“Officer Jacksland has inspired me to go into law enforcement,” said Lucas. “He showed me my purpose when we became friends at school, teaching me what law enforcement is all about and that it was meant for me.”

As Jacksland steps into retirement, the celebration made clear that his impact will continue long after his years in uniform.