Lexington Appoints Lifelong Lexington Resident
Jessica Burks as Police Captain
(Lexington, Virginia, February 11, 2026) – The Lexington Police Department (LPD) is excited to appoint a seasoned law enforcement professional with deep roots in the greater Lexington area to the rank of captain.
Jessica Burks will begin serving as Police Captain for the City of Lexington on Tuesday February 10, 2026, and will serve as the second in command of Lexington Police Department.
Captain Jess Burks’ career with the Lexington Police Department began in June 2011 as a civilian employee, a role that provided her with a unique, foundational perspective on the agency’s operations. Captain Burks completed basic police training in June 2012 and officially joined her fellow officers on the road.
Over the last decade, Jess has built a comprehensive career through a steady rise in leadership, serving as Corporal, Sergeant, and Lieutenant. Her diverse experiences include being a member of the Regional Tactical Team, the LPD Bike Patrol, and serving as both a Firearms Instructor and Field Training Officer. Her commitment to public safety is also reflected in her multi-year recognition as a recipient of the MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Driving) award.
In 2024, Jess transitioned to the investigations team, where she spearheaded one of her most impactful contributions to date. Recognizing a critical need for enhanced victim advocacy, she partnered with the Rockbridge County Sheriff’s Office, the Buena Vista Police Department, and Project Horizon to establish the regional Lethality Assessment Program. This collaborative initiative helps first responding officers assess a victim’s risk of lethal intimate partner violence and connect the survivor with services.
Captain Burks holds a master’s degree in psychology with concentrations in human services and criminal justice, and a bachelor’s degree in mass communications and international business. Known for her approachable leadership style and her ability to build relationships across departments and the community, Captain Burks remains focused on proactive policing and the protection of the Lexington community.
Upon her promotion, Captain Burks said, “Many people—friends, neighbors, and acquaintances—have all helped shape me into the person I am today. I am beyond excited to step into this new leadership role, where I can continue to give back to the community that gave me so much. My goal is to empower our officers to lead with the care, compassion, and unwavering dedication that our residents deserve.”
Chief of Police Justin Doll noted how great it is for the Lexington Police Department to have someone who was raised in Lexington and came up through the ranks at LPD take on this senior leadership position. Doll said, “In addition to her many career accomplishments, I am very impressed with captain Burks’ day-to-day work at LPD. I have every confidence in her ability to be a core member of the leadership team at LPD.”
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Contact Persons: Justin Doll – Chief of Police – jdoll@lexingtonva.gov
