A Suffolk woman is moving from one law enforcement capacity to another.

Joan R. Jones has accepted the position of community outreach coordinator with the Suffolk Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office effective next week.

Jones is moving from the position of forensic supervisor for the Suffolk Police Department. She is a lifelong resident of Suffolk, a graduate of John F. Kennedy High School and attended Virginia State University.

“I have always had a great desire to help crime victims and to help others in the community to not become victims,” Jones said.

“My heart goes out to young people who get headed in the wrong direction. I want to help prevent that from occurring. I also want to let the citizens throughout the city know that the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office not only prosecutes criminal acts but also tries to prevent crime by educating young people and others on the consequences of crime and also helps Suffolk’s citizens from not becoming a victim of crime. This position allows me to do all of these things.”

Jones is a member of East End Baptist Church, and her community involvement includes the United Way, Relay for Life and the Genieve Shelter, where she is a trained advocate.

She has more than 20 years of law enforcement experience. She is a graduate of the Virginia Forensic Science Academy, is certified as a Department of Criminal Justice Services General Instructor, a member of the Virginia Homicide Association and a member of the International Association for Identification.

Jones implemented a Junior CSI Camp and an Excavation School in Suffolk, which were the first in the state. She also developed a Basic Crime Scene School and is a general instructor at the Hampton Roads Police Academy. She speaks at schools and colleges throughout the state and has written an article for Forensic Magazine.

“Because of her history of creating and presenting programs as part of her duties with the Suffolk Police Department, she will bring ideas and suggestions to enhance our established community outreach program and will carry it to the next level,” Commonwealth’s Attorney C. Phillips Ferguson said. “In addition, with Joan’s forensic background, she will be able to assist our attorneys in criminal cases involving forensic evidence. She will truly be an asset to our office.”