Cobb County Sheriff
cobbsheriff.org
THE STORY: I grew up on the border of Cobb County and the city of Atlanta, raised by my family’s matriarchs. After high school, I enlisted in the U.S. Army. After four years, I transitioned to the Reserves to become a full-time Cobb County police officer.
Along the way, I earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and a master’s of public administration, and continued to excel in my law enforcement career. I chose this path because of my deep desire to continue a family tradition of public service and to help keep people safe.
In 2020, after many discussions with my family and community leaders, I decided to run for sheriff of Cobb County. In the same year, I retired as a command sergeant major, the highest rank possible for an enlisted soldier, after more than 30 years in the Reserves.
WHY I CHOSE TO LIVE IN COBB: Except for times spent abroad while serving our country, I’ve spent my entire adult life in Cobb County. It’s where my wife, Sharon — my high school sweetheart — and I raised our children. Cobb is community. It’s home; it’s where we’ve achieved the American Dream.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB? As sheriff, I have the honor and responsibility to lead more than 700 dedicated sworn and civilian employees in service to a safer, more connected Cobb County. Since taking office in January 2021, we’re building future law enforcement leaders, reimagining how the community engages with the sheriff’s office, investing in programs to empower detainees to be productive members of society, and investing in our youth and families.
When I shake a detainee’s hand after they’ve just earned their GED program, when I’ve helped coach a middle-manager on how to grow in their career, when I hear we’ve solved a case and helped a Cobb family, I know I’m walking in God’s purpose for my life.
LEISURE TIME: I don’t get a lot of leisure time since I usually keep long hours working or meeting with community leaders or employees. But my wife and I spend a lot of time with our kids and grandkids. When it’s football season, you can likely find me at a game or tailgating.
BEST ADVICE: I’ve spent a lot of the past few years as sheriff investing in our organization. From education to technology to innovating programs, we’re intentional about building a professional law enforcement workforce.
No matter your industry or profession, make sure you’re investing in your team, yourself, and preparing for a rapidly changing world.
WHAT’S NEXT? In my first term, we implemented a six-part strategic plan and have checked off every box. I am on a quest to make the Cobb County Sheriff’s Office the best law enforcement agency in Georgia, if not the country. We’re making good progress and appreciate the community’s continued support.
