OPOC Award Winner: Jody White

OUTSTANDING POLICE OFFICER OF THE COMMUNITY

Throughout his career, Jody has gone above and beyond in demonstrating his commitment to serving the citizens of the community of Opelousas, La. As a young full time police officer Jody volunteered his time for a decade and a half to coach little league boys and girls of our community. His love for coaching, went far beyond the game itself, he used those opportunities to bridge the gap between youth and law enforcement. He focused on discipline, respect for yourself, your teammates, and the game itself.

Throughout his tenure as a police officer Jody spearheaded numerous fundraisers for the Special Olympics, in addition to volunteering countless hours for many of their events.

In 2002 while investigating a domestic dispute, Jody was shot by the suspect, what could have been a life changing moment, did not change his desire to serve his community. After a short recovery he returned to work, and without hesitation, focused on serving his community with the same commitment and dedication. Jody continued volunteering his time not only on the baseball and softball fields but also in the classroom as a substitute teacher. After retiring in 2023 he became the man behind the scenes in fundraisers for the Kiwanis Club of Opelousas, an organization focused on improving the world one child one community at a time. This organization also provides scholarships and gifts to kids throughout his community. Jody also lead several fundraisers for the local CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) volunteers who work in conjunction with child protective services and abused juveniles.

Jody’s actions throughout his career and even after, exemplifies what it means to be a true public servant.

Most recently Jody joined the ranks of politics and easily unseated a 20 year incumbent to represent his home district as a Parish Councilman. As the newly elected councilman Jody joined a group of his colleagues on a trip to Washington DC where he lobbied to obtain funding for not only the Opelousas Police Department, but also for other agencies throughout the parish, funding dedicated to purchasing body armor and additional communication devices.

This is just another of Jody’s continuous above and beyond examples, none of which was ever done for recognition, this is just who retired Lt. Jody White is.