Oxford sergeant first woman to win R.L. "Bob" Jones peace officer award

Sgt. Hillary Smith of the Oxford Police Department was named the 2026 recipient of the R.L. "Bob" Jones Memorial Oxford Peace Officer of the Year award on Jan. 12. Smith, who has served with OPD for seven years, is the first woman to receive the honor, a point local leaders say highlights both her individual contributions and shifting dynamics within Lafayette County law enforcement.

Police leadership praised Smith's leadership, work ethic and commitment to the Oxford community. Chief Jeff McCutchen described her as an outstanding officer who is relied upon for complex cases and special assignments. Department officials emphasized that the award recognizes more than day-to-day patrol work: it honors sustained initiative in investigations, mentorship of younger officers and visible community engagement downtown and across the county neighborhoods.

Smith herself said the honor reflected the support of colleagues and family and expressed pride in serving Oxford. Her recognition arrives as departments nationwide face pressure to rebuild public trust, recruit diverse candidates and balance transparency with effective policing. For Lafayette County residents, the award is both a local milestone and a practical marker of who is on the front lines of public safety.

The immediate community impact is tangible. Recognizing a frontline sergeant who routinely handles complex assignments reinforces continuity in investigative capacity and signals institutional investment in talented personnel. It also serves as an aspirational example for women and other underrepresented groups considering careers in law enforcement here. Smaller departments like Oxford's often rely on a tight network of officers whose local knowledge and community relationships are critical during high-profile incidents and everyday neighborhood concerns.

There are also operational implications. A leader singled out for complex assignments may mentor newer officers, shape response protocols and influence training priorities. That can translate into improved evidence handling, stronger interagency coordination and steadier response times for Lafayette County residents who call 911.

The award is part of a broader community conversation about public safety and representation. Residents who care about neighborhood policing, school safety and trust between officers and citizens can view Smith’s recognition as one data point in assessing how OPD is evolving. Attend city meetings, meet patrol officers at community events and follow department announcements to stay informed about staffing and policy changes.

Our two cents? Celebrate this local achievement, but stay engaged. Recognition of good work matters, and so does ongoing community oversight and conversation to ensure that strong leadership translates into safer streets for all of Lafayette County.