Meet Shameta Jones-Harrell: Cobb County’s First-Ever Female Police Chief

Shameta Jones-Harrell has made history by becoming Cobb County, Georgia’s first female police chief. On June 3, 2025, she was unanimously appointed as the Chief of Police for the City of Austell, representing an important milestone in the county’s law enforcement history.

Originally from Huntsville, Alabama, Shameta Jones-Harrell’s path into law enforcement began after earning a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice with a focus on Forensic Science from Jacksonville State University.

Initially wanting to become a defense attorney, her career trajectory changed when she participated in a program funded by the federal government under former President Bill Clinton, which offered to pay off her student loans in exchange for five years of police service in Georgia.

Her Journey into the Police Force

Shameta Jones-Harrell started her career in law enforcement in October 2000 with the College Park Police Department. Over her 13 years there, she took on different roles, such as patrol officer, detective specializing in sex crimes, domestic violence, and crimes against children, as well as serving on the SWAT team—the only woman in that unit at the time.

She also worked as a Field Training Officer and eventually rose to the rank of Sergeant.

In 2013, she became a Uniform Patrol Sergeant at the Brookhaven Police Department. Her leadership abilities led her to rapid advancements to Lieutenant and then Major, where she oversaw the Support Services Division.

In this capacity, she directed several units, including community policing, training, traffic safety, and special projects like the introduction of FLOCK cameras. She also initiated the “One Congregation One Precinct (OneCop)” program to foster stronger connections between the police and faith communities.

In August 2022, Shameta Jones-Harrell took on the role of Deputy Chief at the Austell Police Department. Following former Chief Scott Hamilton’s resignation in February 2025, she served as the interim chief. Her permanent chief appointment was confirmed with a unanimous 6-0 vote by the Austell City Council.

As the Chief of Police, Jones-Harrell has set forth several goals, such as increasing the representation of women in the department, improving community engagement, and attaining state accreditation for the department. She prioritizes accountability, training, and inclusion as fundamental aspects of her leadership style.

Under her interim leadership, the department experienced a decline in violent crime, which she credits to strategic daily patrol plans and an enhanced community presence.

In addition to her career accomplishments, Jones-Harrell is a dedicated mother to two sons. She frequently reflects on her late mother’s memory, keeping a photo nearby inscribed with the words, “Inside me is a weak heart, but behind me is a strong God,” which she says helps her stay grounded as she leads with strength and determination.