CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Sheriff Garry L. McFadden of Mecklenburg County has been elected to serve on the Board of Directors of the National Sheriffs’ Association (NSA), marking a significant milestone for both Sheriff McFadden and the state of North Carolina. This appointment now positions North Carolina with two sheriffs on the executive board, promising heightened advocacy and representation at the national level.
Sheriff McFadden’s election was announced following the NSA’s annual, 4-day conference, which convened more than 3,000 sheriffs from across the United States. Reflecting on his achievement, Sheriff McFadden expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support received from colleagues across multiple states, underscoring the broad backing he received during the election process.
As Sheriff McFadden and Iredell County Sheriff Darren Campbell were the sole sheriffs from North Carolina in attendance, Sheriff McFadden emphasized the need for stronger advocacy from all sheriffs in the state, highlighting his commitment to amplify North Carolina’s voice in national sheriffs’ initiatives.
Known for his proactive leadership and dedication to innovative programs within the criminal justice system, Sheriff McFadden serves on the Executive Board of the 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 Executive Board of Governors as a representative for Detention, advocating for progressive and humane practices in correctional facilities.
Sheriff McFadden has received national recognition by former President Barack Obama for his “Cops and Barbers” program that builds trust between law enforcement and the public and he was recently acknowledged by President Joe Biden for receiving the Presidential Lifetime Achievement award for his outstanding community service work around the county.
Additionally, the sheriff, who serves as the NSA chairman of R(IGNITE), is known for successfully launching the program here in Mecklenburg County and helping the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office in Alabama kickstart its own IGNITE, which stands for ‘Residents Individually Growing Naturally & Intentionally Through Education’.
These programs have garnered praise for their impact on community relations and resident rehabilitation and reentry. These efforts have not only earned Sheriff McFadden accolades, but 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 tenure on the NSA Board of Directors. In his new role, Sheriff McFadden aims to tackle pressing issues affecting sheriffs nationwide, including gun violence, the opioid crisis and recidivism rates, to name a few.
His next endeavor, NSA has asked the sheriff to fly to Tampa, Fla. to speak with the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners.
