Wednesday was Jackson’s last day to lead the police department for which he will continue to work on a part-time basis.
The Dora City Council voted to accept Jackson’s resignation Tuesday during a regularly scheduled Council meeting.
Jackson said he is stepping down to devote more time to his company, C&J Trucking.
Dora Mayor Chris Edwards said until a new police chief is named, officer John Duchock will serve as the department’s officer in charge.
Edwards said Duchock previously got experience serving as the interim police chief when he was appointed to lead the force in October when Jackson was temporarily placed on paid administrative leave.
“This isn’t anything new for him (Duchock). He has stepped up in the past couple of months in the chief’s absence,” Edwards said.
Jackson’s suspension — the result of an inquiry of the Alabama Bureau of Investigation that stemmed from a complaint filed with the Walker County Sheriff’s Office — was lifted by the Dora City Council on Jan. 13.
Because of his confidence in Duchock and reassurance that Jackson will remain with the police department for the time being, Edwards said the city is “not in a hurry” to find a full-time replacement for Jackson.
“Obviously, we’re going to do what’s best for the police department,” Edwards said.
Jackson said he has confidence that Duchock will do a good job as officer in charge.
“He’s a good leader: He knows how to handle it,” said Jackson, who added he will support Duchock and whoever city officials name as Dora’s new police chief. “He’s knowledgeable and knows what’s going on.”
Duchock, who previously served as police chief for the City of Hanceville, declined on Wednesday to comment on his new role as the Dora Police Department’s officer in charge.
Jackson said on Wednesday his final day as chief of police was bittersweet.
“I’m kind of sad, but I’m excited, too,” said Jackson, who added he plans to remain on the police force indefinitely. “I’ll still be around.”