Sylva Police Officer/Assistant Chief for 4 years, has spent 10 years with the Sylva Police Department.

Education: Graduated from Cullowhee High School, Law Enforcement Certificate from Southwestern Community College.

Family: Husband Kim Hooper; son Brady Hooper, 10 and Baylee, 4.

We Asked:
1: How did you become interested in your profession and what brought you to your current job?
2: What do you like most about your job?
3: What do you like least about your job?
4: What is the best advice you’ve ever gotten?
5: What is your favorite leisure time activity?
6: What is the last book you’ve read/movie you’ve seen/music you’ve heard that inspired you?
7: Tell us about a person or organization in Jackson County whose work you admire?
8: What keeps you living in Jackson County?
9: Where is your favorite place in Jackson County?
10: What is your hope for the future of Jackson County?

1: I became interested in law enforcement when I was employed as a secretary for a law enforcement agency. I knew then that I wanted to make a difference in the county we live in. I have the greatest admiration for officers trying to make a difference in order to protect and serve the public.

2: What I enjoy the most in my job is the community policing. I enjoy working with the youth, I like meeting new people and catching up with old friends.

3: What I like the least in my profession is seeing children and elderly people abused or victimized.

4: The best advice I have ever received came from my parents. They taught me to treat people the way that I would want to be treated or how I would want my family to be treated.

5: My favorite leisure time activities are spending time with my family, reading and camping.

6: The Bible always has and will continue to be the best book that I have read. I know that I can always turn to it and be calmed, guided, or find strength within its pages. The Bible lets me know that I am never alone, and in my profession that is one of the greatest feelings.

7: I admire the public servants of this county; law enforcement, fire, ems and rescue. These people put their life on the line everyday to serve or rescue others. They work tirelessly and usually without thanks or praise.

8: My family, friends and career are what keep me tied to this county. My roots are here and I truly believe that this is a great place to raise a family.

9: My favorite place in Jackson County is the old Jackson County Court House that sits upon the hill overlooking the town. When I look at it, it reminds me of the history of this county.

10: I hope the future of Jackson County continues to grow and prosper, however maintain the same quality of life and continue to be a great place to raise our children.