GARY, Ind. – The Gary Police Department is committed to transparency and maintaining the trust of the citizens we serve. Today, we were notified regarding the arrest of Sergeant Jamaal Joseph, a 17-year veteran of the force, by the Portage Police Department.

Upon verification of charges filed by the Porter County Prosecutor’s Office—which include one count of Domestic Violence and two counts of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated—the Gary Police Department took immediate administrative action.

Effective immediately, Sergeant Joseph has been placed on unpaid leave. He will remain on unpaid leave pending the outcome of the criminal proceedings and the completion of our own internal investigation.

We take these allegations incredibly seriously. We hold our officers to a high standard of conduct, both on and off duty.  

Statement from Police Chief Derrick Cannon:

"Integrity is the foundation of public safety. While this news is disappointing, I want to reassure the public: the alleged actions of one individual do not define the character of this department. The men and women of the Gary Police Department show up every single day with professionalism, courage, and a genuine heart for service to this city. We are building a culture of accountability and excellence, and we will not let this isolated incident distract us from our mission to protect and serve our community.”

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