Bay Pines VA police provide safe, secure site

Air Force Veteran and Chief of Police Jesse Gabbert doesn’t pull any punches when you ask him about Bay Pines VA’s police service. “Of course, I’m biased but I’ll gladly tell anyone I believe we have the best police department in VISN 8.”

Gabbert spent 21 years on active duty with security forces and, after his retirement, another eight years as a federal civilian with the Air Force before making the decision to join VA.

“I was looking to expand my professional career while still being part of the federal service,” he said. “What better way to do that than working with—and leading—a team whose mission is To Protect Those Who Served.”

Gabbert (back row, left) says his team’s ability to function at the highest levels across the health care system remains grounded in strong relationships with their counterparts in the community and respect for Veterans receiving health care across the area.

Part of the patient care team

Gabbert says his team brings a unique value to the Bay Pines VA community that sets them apart from their counterparts outside of the federal government.

“Although we don’t provide direct health care services, we are part of the patient care team. Our goal is to provide a safe and secure place for employees to work and for Veterans, family members and caregivers to receive world-class health care.”

Opportunities to recruit and hire talent remain ongoing for Bay Pines VA’s police service. Although 85% of his department are Veterans, Gabbert stresses that military service is not a requirement to be part of the team.

“Prior law enforcement experience is always a plus. But hires receive offers because they demonstrate an understanding, willingness and ability to accept a Veteran-centered policing posture to our job, which entails listening, de-escalating and empathetic actions,” he added.

The chief acknowledged that his team’s ability to function at the highest levels across the health care system remains grounded in strong relationships with their counterparts in the community.

Opportunities to serve in critical positions

“I’m the biggest proponent of encouraging upward mobility within our department. In addition to the role of police officer, there are opportunities to serve in a variety of critical positions, such as instructor, ground offense and criminal investigator, to name a few,” he said.

In the two years he’s served in the senior leadership position at Bay Pines VA, Gabbert has seen the impact of collaboration as his team works cross-functionally with counterparts across the area.

“Due to the proximity of our medical center, the law enforcement agencies in Pinellas County and St. Petersburg are the organizations we work closest with in the area, but we have partnership agreements with every law enforcement team across the area, which serves as a huge benefit.”

If you are interested in making a career change and exploring options to join the law enforcement team with Bay Pines VA, please review available positions on USAJobs or stop by the Police Department, located near the East Gate entrance on 10000 Bay Pines Blvd., to talk to the team directly.