Charles Scriven has lived a long and eventful life, witnessing 15 presidents, five wars, segregation, and the civil rights movement. But some of his most memorable moments came during his time with the Jacksonville Police Department, where he became the first African American officer to advance to the rank of chief.
Scriven’s journey as an officer was not an easy one, as he faced discrimination and limitations due to segregation. In the 1950s, black officers in Jacksonville were only allowed to enforce the law in the black community and were not permitted to arrest white people. They had to call a white supervisor to handle any situations involving white suspects.
Despite these challenges, Scriven persevered with the support of his wife and family. In 1977, he and his wife, his high school sweetheart, bought their first home, a symbol of stability and success for their family. That same year, Scriven applied to join the Fraternal Order of Police, the officers’ union, but was denied membership repeatedly over the following decades.
In 2018, Scriven requested membership again, and it was then that current FOP President Steve Zona learned about the long battle that Scriven had been fighting. Zona apologized on behalf of the FOP and a public apology was made in front of Scriven’s family, former police chiefs, mayors, and current officers.
Scriven’s journey demonstrates the challenges and discrimination faced by African American officers in the past, as well as the importance of perseverance and determination. Despite the obstacles he faced, Scriven remained dedicated to serving his community and doing what he believed was right in the sight of God. His story serves as a reminder of the progress that has been
