Breaking Barriers, Building Legacies: Sheriff Jacquelyn Barrett-Washington’s Trailblazing Journey
In celebration of Women’s History Month, we honor a law enforcement pioneer—Retired Sheriff Jacquelyn Barrett-Washington. In 1992, she made history as the first African American female sheriff in the United States when she was elected to lead the Fulton County Sheriff’s Office in Georgia. Overseeing a budget exceeding $65 million and a team of more than 1,000 officers and civilians, Washington stepped into leadership with a clear vision—modernization, accountability, and service to her community. She wasted no time making an impact, successfully removing the county jail from federal oversight, saving millions in penalties, and advancing the sheriff’s office into the digital era.
Washington’s leadership was tested on both a local and global stage. During the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta, she ensured the safety of athletes, dignitaries, and spectators by providing critical law enforcement support. She was re-elected three times, a testament to her effectiveness and the trust she built with the community. Under her leadership, the Fulton County Sheriff’s Office earned accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies—a prestigious recognition of excellence. But her impact reached far beyond policy and operations; she redefined what was possible for African American women in law enforcement, breaking barriers that had stood for generations.
Her influence continues to be felt today. Washington’s historic tenure paved the way for more African American women to serve as sheriffs, including Melody Maddox of Dekalb County and Tia M. McWilliams of Taliaferro County. Today, Georgia has over 30 African Americans serving as sheriffs—a direct reflection of her groundbreaking leadership. Even in retirement, she remains committed to shaping the future of law enforcement. As a member of the National Black Sheriffs Association (NBSA), she leads our tribe of elders composed on retired sheriffs to ensure that integrity, ethics, and a sense of duty remain at the heart of the profession.
Sheriff Barrett-Washington’s story is one of courage, resilience, and service. She didn’t just break barriers—she built bridges for those who would come after her. Her legacy reminds us that leadership is about more than holding a title; it’s about creating opportunities for others to rise. Let’s celebrate her contributions and continue to uplift the women who are shaping the future of law enforcement. Share this post to honor her legacy and inspire the next generation of changemakers!
We have commissioned the following custom frame portrait of Retired Sheriff Barrett-Washington to honor her contributions during Women’s History Month.
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