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Mark Christopher Dent began his career at the Jackson Police Department on July 6, 1990 when he was hired as a Patrol Officer assigned to the Patrol Division.  After completing his probationary period of  2 years, Officer Dent was transferred to the Tactical Unit on September 1, 1993.  

Officer Dent became a certified Firearms Instructor through the T.L.E.T.A. and after successfully completing an F.B.I. Instructor Development course, Officer Dent became a departmental instructor in firearms training.

Officer Dent received numerous letters of appreciation and commendation for his service to the community.  He also was voted as the Employee of the Month in June 1994.  When Officer Dent was nominated for the EOM award, he was described as being extremely professional, very caring and dependable officer who showed exceptional courage both on and off duty.  Officer Dent's vivacious character was an inspiration to all.   It was said; "It's hard to hold a real man down!  Officer Dent stands tall with every officer in our department."

Officer Dent exemplified quiet courage in the face of adversity until the end.  Officer Mark Christopher Dent's life was cut short when he fell ill and died July 22, 1994.  He was an inspiration and loved by all that knew and cared about him. Rest in peace brother!