Nationwide — Shameta Jones-Harrell has officially taken charge as Austell, Georgia’s new police chief, making history as the first woman to lead a police department in Cobb County. She plans to increase female representation in the force, strengthen community engagement, and secure state accreditation for the department.
Harrell was sworn in Tuesday night. She said her focus includes accountability, training, and getting state certification for the department. “We are almost at the end of that goal,” she told WSB-TV.
Harrell brings 24 years of law enforcement experience. She started her career in College Park, where she rose from patrol officer to major and was the only woman on the SWAT team. She later joined Brookhaven Police Department and earned a promotion to lieutenant after just one year.
Harrell moved to Austell PD as deputy chief and led about 60 community outreach projects. She emphasized her commitment to building a stronger, more diverse department.
“One of the reasons why I decided to join law enforcement is so I can make sure I could progress other women through the ranks,” she said.
Since taking on leadership roles, Harrell has seen a drop in violent crime across Austell. She credits that to daily patrol plans and a stronger presence in the community.
Harrell keeps a photo of her late mother with her as a reminder of her roots. The message reads, “It says, ‘Inside me is a weak heart, but behind me is a strong God.” She says her faith and family help her stay grounded.