In the heart of Southern Utah, we have the privilege of introducing you to Jessica Bate, an indispensable part of the Ivins / Santa Clara Utah Police Department. As Catori West delves into our “Pillars of the Community” series, Jessica Bate embodies the essence of what makes our town feel like home. Let’s get to know the woman behind the badge, and uncover the stories that make her an integral part of our community.
Catori
What inspired you to pursue a career in law enforcement, and how did your journey lead you to become a valued member of the Santa Clara/ Ivins Police Department?
Jessica
Since a young age, my interests have differed from those of my peers, gravitating towards programs such as CSI: Las Vegas, Cold Case Files, and NCIS. I was fascinated by the investigative process and the closure for victims, I cultivated a steadfast ambition to pursue a career within the FBI. Despite fluctuations in aspirations, my dedication to investigative roles, whether domestic or federal, has remained unwavering.
During my undergraduate studies at Utah Tech University, I had the privilege of learning from Chief Flowers, a distinguished professor. I embarked on an enriching internship with the Santa Clara Ivins Police Department prior to my junior year. During the internship I cherished the sense of community and camaraderie within the police department. During the summer preceding my senior year, Chief Flowers approached me with a potential job opportunity within the department. Eagerly, I applied. I was hired for the position and sponsored through the police academy. I graduated from the academy in 2018. Over the past six years, I have contributed to various roles within the Santa Clara-Ivins Police Department which has deepened my understanding of investigative practices and law enforcement procedures.
Catori
Could you share a particularly memorable or impactful experience from your time on the force that has shaped you?
Jessica
In my career, the most rewarding aspect has been the opportunity to positively impact others’ lives. I am privileged to support individuals during challenging moments, striving to offer them comfort and assistance. One memorable experience occurred while I was on patrol. I pulled over a driver for running a stop sign, only to realize that he was someone I had previously arrested for various offenses. During the traffic stop I learned he was impaired and was also in possession of a controlled substance. The male was arrested at the time. Despite his impaired state, I maintained a conversation with him on the way to the jail, discussing his future candidly. I expressed my belief in his ability to make positive changes and encouraged him to pursue a better path. Two years later, he reached out to me with a heartfelt message. Something he said was, “I appreciate you and how you always treated me with respect as a human instead of treating me like another junkie that wouldn’t change. I really believe you helped me believe in myself enough to turn my life around.” This encounter reinforced the importance of compassion and professionalism in my interactions, fueling my determination to continue making a positive difference every day.
Catori
As a woman in a traditionally male-dominated field, have you faced any misconceptions or stereotypes about female officers, and how do you challenge or overcome them?
Jessica
Certainly, one prevalent misconception is the belief that females are inherently weak or unfit for the rigors of policing. As a woman in law enforcement, I’ve dedicated myself to maintaining peak physical condition and prioritizing my health to ensure my effectiveness on the streets. I’ve had the privilege of instructing the Physical Training segment of the Police Academy for the past six years, alongside my role as a member of the Washington County Metro SWAT team since 2021. Being the only female on the SWAT team, I not only challenge stereotypes through my performance but also through representation, proving that gender is not a determinant of proficiency in law enforcement, especially in elite units such as SWAT.
Catori
Tell us some interesting facts about you. What do you do in your spare time and what is a fun fact people would be surprised to hear about you?
Jessica
In my spare time, my husband and I enjoy traveling with our son, indulging in various outdoor activities such as mountain biking, snowboarding, hiking, pickleball, and running. A fun fact about me is that I’ve had the opportunity to explore all 50 states and visit 32 countries.
Catori
What has been the most rewarding aspect of your career in law enforcement so far, and what keeps you motivated during challenging times?
Jessica
The most rewarding aspect of my career has been bringing lightness to people on their darkest days. Despite the challenges I face, what keeps me motivated are faith, my family, and engaging in hobbies such as traveling, outdoor activities, and spending quality time with loved ones.
Catori
Balancing a demanding career in law enforcement with personal life can be challenging. How do you prioritize self-care and maintain a healthy work-life balance?
Jessica
Balancing a demanding career in law enforcement with personal life can indeed be challenging. To prioritize self-care, I ensure that I fuel my body with nutritious food and maintain physical fitness through regular workouts. Additionally, I rely on my husband as a safe and supportive confidant, allowing me to discuss any challenges that arise. Moreover, I make a conscious effort to be fully present with my family and friends when I’m with them, creating a clear boundary between my personal and professional life to maintain a healthy balance.
Catori
Can you walk us through a typical day in your role, highlighting some of the responsibilities and duties you undertake?
Jessica
As a detective in investigations, my day-to-day tasks can vary, but typically include, but are not limited to, writing search warrants for individuals or properties, conducting interviews, typing reports, and maintaining regular contact with victims.
In addition to the aforementioned tasks, I also undertake additional duties such as providing support to patrol units on calls when necessary, as well as responding to call-outs that require investigative attention. These responsibilities ensure that I remain adaptable and responsive to the dynamic needs of our community and law enforcement operations.
Catori
What words of encouragement or words of reservation would you share with someone considering a career in law enforcement?
Jessica
For someone considering a career in law enforcement, I would say this is a great profession that offers immense gratification and camaraderie. Despite the challenges you may face, know that you’ll have an unwavering support network of fellow officers surrounding you.
