Thom Corley

Chief Thom Corley was appointed Chief of Police on January 3, 2022, after more than 35 years with the Jackson Police Department. He began his career in 1990 as a Patrol Officer and went on to serve in numerous roles, including Narcotics Investigator, Background Investigator, Internal Affairs Investigator, Hostage Negotiator, and Use of Force and Legal Instructor. Promoted to Sergeant in 1997 and Lieutenant in 2008, he later advanced to Captain in 2009—becoming the Department’s Legal Advisor—then Major in 2013, and Assistant Chief in 2019.

A lifelong Jackson resident, Chief Corley graduated from Jackson Central Merry High School in 1986 and served in the U.S. Marine Corps before joining the department. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Management from Bethel University in 1999 and a Doctor of Jurisprudence from Nashville School of Law in 2008. As General Counsel, he provided legal guidance, training, and representation for the department while also working with city leaders on ordinances, contracts, and litigation matters. Chief Corley is a member of the Tennessee Bar and a licensed attorney.