Austell Police Chief Shameta Jones-Harrell
In June 2025, Shameta Jones-Harrell was named the city of Austell’s first female chief of police. In fact, she is the first female police chief in Cobb County. Chief Jones-Harrell has worked in law enforcement for 25 years. She began her career with the College Park Police Department, rising through the ranks from uniform patrol officer to sergeant, serving as both a field training officer and detective. In 2013, she joined the Brookhaven Police Department where she eventually earned the rank of major. While there, she oversaw various units, including Community Engagement, Training, Traffic Safety, Property and Evidence, and Hiring and Background Investigations. In August 2022, she transferred to the Austell Police Department, serving as deputy chief of police before becoming interim chief of police.
Chief Jones-Harrell recently agreed to speak with Cobb In Focus about her career, her leadership experience, public safety, and her plans for the Austell Police Department.
The Story: I was born and raised in Huntsville, Alabama. During my early school years, I attended a performing arts school called The Academy for Academics and Arts. I continued my love for the arts at Lee High School, where I participated in the magnet music program, choir, and dance. In high school, I was also a member of the school’s community service organization, the academic beta club, track team, and I served on the student council.
After graduating from high school, I attended Jacksonville State University (JSU), where I pursued a degree in Criminal Justice. While at JSU, I performed with the Marching Southerners as a member of the Ballerinas danceline. Additionally, I was crowned Miss Black JSU by the NAACP chapter after competing in their pageant, and I joined Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
Originally, I planned to attend law school after completing my degree. However, I was recruited by a federal program called the Georgia Police Corps, which funded my bachelor’s degree in exchange for five years of service in law enforcement. I began my career at the College Park Police Department under Chief Gary Yandura. Law enforcement resonated with me deeply, and I quickly realized that serving the community was my calling; it was a perfect fit, and I truly enjoyed it.
What drew you to law enforcement? I enjoyed the excitement of policing and working with the community. Each day brought new experiences, which I found exhilarating. I especially loved the opportunity to make a personal impact on people’s lives, particularly children. While working in investigations, I specialized in crimes against children. It was incredibly rewarding to be a voice for innocent kids whose lives were negatively affected. Children are the truest victims, and advocating for them was fulfilling both as a detective and as a mother.
What does it mean to you to be the first female police chief in Cobb County? This is certainly a historic moment, and I am very grateful for it. I did not plan to be “the first,” nor did I see it coming. Throughout my career, I have wanted people to look beyond my race and gender and to respect me as a police officer and law enforcement leader. I have focused so intensely on working hard to prove that I deserve everything I’ve achieved that, at times, I became blind to my gender — yet I was constantly reminded of it by others.
Being recognized as “the first” represents progress, but we will know we have truly advanced when we no longer need to precede a woman’s title with “the first.” It is important to acknowledge female leaders’ accomplishments without implying that we achieved them due to diversity, equity, and inclusion (D.E.I.) initiatives rather than merit.
Who or what has inspired your leadership approach throughout your career? God has placed many individuals in my life who have contributed to my journey. I am grateful for my supportive parents, who ensured that I knew God, prayed for me, and worked diligently to support my educational development. My first chief, Gary Yandura, provided me with opportunities that fostered my professional growth. My most recent chief, Scott Hamilton, believed in me and consistently presented challenges that helped me build confidence in myself.
What advice would you give to young women interested in public service or leadership? Demand respect from everyone around you. Always speak up when you are treated unfairly, or when you witness another woman in public service being treated unfairly. Find a supportive community and nurture those relationships. Embrace your femininity; it is a strength given to you by God, not a weakness.
What role does public safety play in creating a thriving environment for businesses and families? Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs emphasizes the importance of safety, as feeling secure is essential for stability in life. Businesses and families cannot thrive in a community that is saturated with crime. Public safety serves as a protective blanket. A balanced and healthy quality of life creates conditions where communities can flourish. Law enforcement has the ability to adapt in various ways, continuously strengthening the connection within our community.
What’s next? I will complete my master’s program at Command College, Columbus State University. I will ensure that the Austell Police Department achieves its state accreditation and will continue to develop the agency’s leadership and legacy. Lastly, I will strive to be the best leader I can be while also being the greatest mom in the world.
