New deputies take oath as leaders advance within BSO

Bossier Parish Sheriff Julian Whittington hosted a swearing-in and promotion ceremony in the newly completed Criminal Operations Training Room, recognizing employees who have taken the next step in their careers with the Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office.

Sheriff Whittington administered the Oath of Affirmation to Jaxon Vandiver and Hunter Craig, who have transitioned from Corrections Officers to Deputies within the Corrections Division. Both deputies have reached the age requirement for commissioned service and will begin the Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office Training Academy this Friday as they continue their journey toward becoming POST-certified law enforcement officers.

The ceremony also included several promotions:

• Sergeant Lennis Jacobs was promoted to Lieutenant and will serve in the Civil Department.

• Shawn Morris was promoted to Sergeant and will serve as a Patrol Shift Supervisor.

• Georgia Spafford was promoted from Patrol Deputy to Detective and will serve in the Criminal Investigations Division.

• Sergeant Jason Gates was promoted to Lieutenant and will serve as Assistant Warden at the Bossier Parish Maximum-Security Facility.

• Yasmine Hay was promoted to Sergeant and will serve as a Shift Supervisor at the Maximum-Security Facility.

• Michael McMillan was promoted to Sergeant and will serve as the Classification Supervisor for Corrections.

Sheriff Whittington congratulated each of the deputies and emphasized that promotions are not simply recognition of past performance, but an opportunity to lead, mentor, and positively influence others.

Sheriff Whittington said, “Each of these individuals has demonstrated dedication, professionalism, and a commitment to serving others. Earning a promotion is an accomplishment, but leadership is where the real work begins. I am confident they will rise to the challenge and make a positive impact on those they serve alongside and those they supervise.”

The Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office congratulates these deputies and supervisors on their achievements and wishes them continued success in their new roles.