Knoxville Mayor Bill Haslam and Police Chief Sterling Owen today named Jackie Roberts as the October Civilian Employee of the Month. Roberts has been employed with the Knoxville Police Department since June 2003.

Ms. Roberts works as a Victim Services Counselor in the Knoxville Police Department's Domestic Violence Unit. In that capacity she works one-on-one with victims of domestic violence. In 2003, the Domestic Violence Unit responded to more than 10,000 calls for help from abused and battered victims.

Chief Owen said, "Despite the over whelming load of cases, Jackie took it upon herself to oversee the department's annual Family Fall Festival."

As chairperson of the festival, Jackie was responsible for setting meetings, organizing fund raising, delegating tasks, along with many other hands-on activities including calling and arranging to have supplies delivered, setting up decorations, and running the festival.
Chief Owen said, "Although it definitely takes the teamwork of everyone to pull off the event, it is ultimately up to the chairperson to make sure everything runs smoothly. Jackie stepped up to the challenge and did an excellent job of organizing and running the festival."

Mayor Haslam said, "We appreciate Jackie volunteering to chair the festival despite her heavy workload. She is commended on a job well done."

Ms. Roberts will receive a signed certificate form the Mayor and Chief along with a free dinner from Bayou Bay Seafood House.