Police Captain Retires ‘Feeling Good’ About the Force

Police Capt. Jim Jacobs, who has served nearly 30 years on the force, retired Tuesday.

“The time is right,” said Jacobs, 54. “We have a great chief, and I leave feeling good about the department.”

In his tenure, Jacobs moved up the ranks from officer to captain, the rank just below the chief, and served as interim chief in 1992.

Reflecting on the troubles that rocked the department a few years ago, Jacobs said he is proud of the role he has played since that time.

“I really felt like I was doing something good--helping the department to recover,” he said.

His most recent assignment, heading the detectives division, has been among the most memorable, he said.

Jacobs swore in an undercover officer who conducted a yearlong investigation that uncovered a major gambling and drug distribution ring operating out of the city’s beachfront bars and restaurants. The investigation concluded last month with the arrests of several people charged with bookmaking and drug distribution.

Some members of the department have mixed feelings about Jacobs retiring.

“On the one hand you are really happy for him,” said Capt. Paul Henisey, “but we’re also really sorry to see him go.”