Jo Ann's 32-year career with the Indianapolis Police Department was originally fueled by her childhood appreciation and admiration for law enforcement. "I grew up knowing police were our friends," she explains, a sentiment that inspired her to serve. "I just liked the idea of serving the community and having one employer, but you could do a lot of different things," she says. 

She started her career in the police academy, where she immersed herself in rigorous training covering legal procedures, first aid and tactical approaches. After mastering the fundamentals, she transitioned to field training, learning the realities of street policing alongside experienced officers. This foundation led her through various roles within the Indianapolis Police Department, including seven years with the mounted police, a role where she fostered crucial community connections. "The horse really bridged that gap," she explains, "and people would come up and talk to the horse, and then they'd end up talking to the human." Eventually, she rose to the rank of sergeant, overseeing 30 officers and shouldering significant responsibility. 

During her tenure as an officer, Jo Ann experienced both routine and extraordinary moments, which highlight the meaningful human connections she forged during her time on the force. She fondly recalls a memorable encounter with a man she pulled over for a traffic stop. Initially apprehensive, the man came to understand Jo Ann's role. "He understood I had a job to do, and I understood that he was just in a hard spot," she says, emphasizing the empathetic approach that marked her legacy throughout her career. This single encounter later developed into a genuine friendship between the two. Over the years they kept in touch and at one point, Jo Ann helped him find an apartment. This relationship serves as a testament to her desire to go above and beyond her duties to answer to a higher civic calling.

However, her career was not without tragedy too. The loss of her son, Officer David Moore, in 2011, was a profound moment in her life. "He was killed in the line of duty during a traffic stop," she says, her voice filled with a mother's enduring love. "He'll forever be 29." Despite this devastating loss, Jo Ann found strength in her work and her colleagues. Feeling a nudge from her late son, a sense that he wanted her to continue her service, she returned to the force after a brief period of mourning. She came back with a strong sense of purpose and served with dedication until her retirement in 2017. "I didn't want to let them down," she says. "I didn't want to let my guys down." 

In her retirement, Jo Ann remains active in her community, volunteering at her daughter’s school and with the retired police officers association. She also indulges in her passion for genealogy, a hobby she describes as “detective work.” “You take what knowledge they have, and then you start just doing research,” she explains, highlighting her love for historical discovery. 

Jo Ann also crafts rosaries and spends time with her family, including her two grandchildren, Sam and Cora. “They’re awesome,” she says, her voice filled with pride. 

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