Jesse Akins,

Employee of the Month

by Renee Fite

City of Stilwell Director of Public Relations and Media


The June, 2024 City of Stilwell Employee of the Month is Jesse Akins, Lieutenant for Stilwell Police Department.


Akins’ job includes supervising patrol officers, and responding promptly to calls, whether that means de-escalating situations or aiding in medical calls, while providing safety to the community.  He has worked for nine years as a police officer. 


Before working for the City of Stilwell Police Department, Akins worked for Adair County Sheriff’s Office as a Detention Officer for four years, then a deputy before he started his career as a Stilwell police officer. He is also a United States Navy Veteran, serving from 2005-2009.


“I enjoy interacting with the public and helping those in need,” said Akins.


He always knew he wanted to serve the community through law enforcement. 


“Being a Stilwell Police Officer has always been a dream of mine, since I was a young child. My grandfather, William Sullins, was an officer here as well as my father-in-law, Kenneth Spearman. They inspired me and I knew it was a dream I would fulfill,” Akins said. 

He plans to continue his career in law enforcement.

Jesse Akins receives recognition from Mayor Jean Ann Wright for his dedication to the City of Stilwell and citizens.


Jesse Akins receives recognition from Mayor Jean Ann Wright for his dedication to the City of Stilwell and citizens.

photo by Renee Fite

“I look forward to working with the Stilwell Police Department and serving my community for many more years to come,” he said. 


Family is very important.


“I am happily married to my wife Holly Akins of 14 years. We have five beautiful kids.”


Their children are Nathen Akins and daughter-in-law Starr Akins; Kamree Hardbarger, Kaden Akins, Aubree Akins and Sydnee Akins. 

Holly is a Surgical RN, and is employed with Cherokee Nation W.W. Hastings Hospital. 


The Akins call the City of Stilwell home.


“It’s a small town that is family oriented, everyone knows everyone, it has a lot of good people who originated from here and are super friendly with good morals. We take care of each other and what we love,” he said.