Advancing Excellence, Leadership, and Representation in Law Enforcement.

Support the next generation of law enforcement trailblazers.

Mission

The National Black Sheriff’s Association (NBSA) champions diversity, innovation, and excellence in the Office of Sheriff. We support sheriffs, deputies, and law enforcement teams who safeguard our communities while driving initiatives like the ‘Decade of Change’ strategy. Together, we’re building a more equitable future.

Black Women Sheriffs

African American Sheriffs Nationwide

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Years of Leadership

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Trailblazers Who Shaped History: Legacy of Black Sheriffs

March 30

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1869

Walter Moses Burton

The First Black Sheriff

Walter Moses Burton, a former slave, became America’s first Black sheriff in Fort Bend County, Texas – paving the way for generations of leaders.

1966

Lucius D. Amerson

Breaking Barriers in the South

Lucius D. Amerson shattered racial boundaries as the first Black sheriff elected in the South after Reconstruction (Macon County, AL).

1970

William "Bill" Lucas

First Black Sheriff Elected in the State of Michigan, Wayne County

1972

John Lyght

First Black Sheriff Elected in the State of Minnesota, Cook County

1976

Frank Davis

First Black Sheriff Elected in the State of Mississippi After Reconstruction, Claiborne County

1978

John Baker

First Black Sheriff Elected in the State of North Carolina, Wake County

1985

Richard B. Langford

First Black Sheriff Elected in the State of Georgia, Fulton County

1992

Jacquelyn Barrett-Washington

A Historic First for Women

Jacquelyn Barrett-Washington made history as the first Black woman elected sheriff in Fulton County, GA.

1995

Nathaniel Glover

First Black Sheriff Elected in the State of Florida, Duval County

Nat Glover became Florida’s first Black sheriff in over a century (Duval County, FL).

1998

Oatess Archey

First Black Sheriff Elected in the State of Indiana, Grant County

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Understanding Sheriff’s Duties

Sheriff’s Role

Elected Officials: Serve entire counties, including rural areas
Key Responsibilities: Jail management, court security, county-wide policing
VS Municipal Police: Appointed leaders focused on city jurisdiction

Empowering Law Enforcement Professionals & Communities

Stories of Leadership & Legacy

History

Honoring a Trailblazer for Justice: Sheriff Oatess Archey

Join us in celebrating the remarkable legacy of Sheriff Oatess Archey, First Black Sheriff Elected in the State of Indiana a true pioneer in the

History

Honoring a Trailblazer for Justice: Charlie Byrd

We’re proud to spotlight this week’s Trailblazer for Justice, Charlie Byrd, who made history as California’s first elected Black sheriff. On behalf of the Lucius

History

Remembering Sheriff Roger E. Walker Jr.: A Trailblazer for Justice

Born in Tennessee in 1949, Roger E. Walker Jr. exemplified dedication and leadership from the start. Relocating to Illinois, he began his journey in law

Continuing a Legacy of Leadership

Anthony E. Amerson, son of trailblazer Lucius D. Amerson, founded NBSA to honor his father’s groundbreaking work and empower the next generation of law enforcement leaders. As a retired USAID diplomat and historian, Anthony’s vision drives our mission: ‘Preparing professionals to serve rural and urban America.

Be Part of the Movement

Join a community committed to progress: Grow your career, fuel change, or uncover the legacy of Black sheriffs

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