Sheriff Garry McFadden Elected to National Sheriffs' Association Board of Directors, Strengthening the Voice of Sheriffs Across America

CHARLOTTE, North Carolina – Mecklenburg County Sheriff Garry L. McFadden has been elected to the National Sheriffs’ Association (NSA) Board of Directors, marking a significant milestone for Sheriff McFadden and the State of North Carolina. This appointment now places North Carolina with two sheriffs on the board, promising increased advocacy and representation at the national level.

Sheriff McFadden's election was announced following the NSA's four-day annual conference, which brought together more than 3,000 sheriffs from across the United States. Reflecting on his achievement, Sheriff McFadden expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support received from his colleagues in several states, noting the broad support he received during the election process.

While Sheriff McFadden and Iredell County Sheriff Darren Campbell were the only North Carolina sheriffs in attendance, Sheriff McFadden stressed the need for stronger advocacy from all sheriffs across the state, emphasizing his commitment to amplifying North Carolina's voice in national sheriff initiatives.

Known for his proactive leadership and dedication to innovative programs within the criminal justice system, Sheriff McFadden serves on the Executive Council of Major County Sheriffs of America, representing Region 4, encompassing nearly 20 states. He has also been actively involved with the American Correctional Association on the Governors Executive Council as a Detention Representative, advocating for progressive and humane practices in correctional facilities.

Sheriff McFadden received national recognition from former President Barack Obama for his “Cops and Barbers” program that builds trust between law enforcement and the public and he was recently recognized by President Joe Biden with the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award for his exceptional community service work around the county.

Additionally, the sheriff, who serves as NSA's president of R(IGNITE), is known for successfully launching the program here in Mecklenburg County and for helping the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office in Alabama launch its own IGNITE, which stands for “Residents Growing Naturally & Intentionally Through Education.”

These programs have garnered praise for their impact on community relations and the rehabilitation and reintegration of residents. These efforts have not only earned Sheriff McFadden accolades, but have also positioned him as a respected voice within the law enforcement community.

Sheriff McFadden was officially sworn in on Thursday, June 27, marking the beginning of his term on the NSA Board of Directors. In his new role, Sheriff McFadden aims to address pressing issues impacting sheriffs nationwide, including gun violence, the opioid crisis, and recidivism rates, to name a few.

In its next move, the NSA asked the sheriff to travel to Tampa, Florida, to speak with the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners.