New Jasper Police Chief biography

Mayor-elect Terry Seitz has appointed J. Michael Bennett as Chief of Police for the Jasper Police Department, effective January 1, 2012.

Bennett, a U.S. Air Force veteran of the Vietnam War, has effectively served the residents of Indiana for 36 years in the fields of law enforcement and security. During his 33-year career with the Indiana State Police (1972-2005), Bennett advanced to the position of Assistant District Commander after holding positions of Trooper and Squad Sergeant. Bennett’s strengths and experience additionally include three years (2005-2008) as Director of Security, French Lick Resort Casino and most recently, three years (2008-present) as Parole Agent with the Indiana Department of Corrections.

A graduate of the Indiana State Police Academy, Bennett remains current on required hours of continuing education. As Jasper Police Chief, he will complete an additional 120 hours of specialized training from the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy in Plainfield. Michael resides in Jasper with his wife, Ann. He has three children – Michelle Dellion of Vincennes, Kristy Bennett of San Diego and Michael Bennett of Jeffersonville and two stepchildren, Rhett Eckert and Rhiley Eckert, both of Jasper.