DeKalb County Sheriff's Office
Sheriff Melody M. Maddox
50th Sheriff of DeKalb County
Biography
Sheriff Melody M. Maddox has dedicated her life and career to public safety, service, leadership, and community engagement. With more than two decades of law enforcement experience throughout metropolitan Atlanta, she has built a reputation for professionalism, innovation, and commitment to the citizens of DeKalb County.
Her law enforcement career began with the DeKalb County Sheriff's Office and expanded through service with both the City of Atlanta Police Department and the DeKalb County Police Department.
In 2019, Sheriff Maddox joined the Sheriff's Office as Chief of Administration, later becoming Chief Deputy before being appointed the 50th Sheriff of DeKalb County.
Professional Leadership
Early Career
Began service with the DeKalb County Sheriff's Office before serving with both the Atlanta Police Department and DeKalb County Police Department.
Georgia Piedmont Technical College
Developed and led public safety operations before becoming the institution's first female Chief of Police.
Chief Deputy
Managed strategic planning and administration of jail, court, field and training operations.
50th Sheriff of DeKalb County
Assumed office December 1, 2019 and continues leading one of Georgia's most diverse and active Sheriff's Offices.
Education
- B.A. Sociology, Morris Brown College
- M.S. Administration, Central Michigan University
- Master's Degree, Newburgh Theological Seminary
Professional Certifications
- P.O.S.T. Certified Peace Officer
- Defensive Tactics Instructor
- Public Safety Executive Leader
Professional Associations
- National Sheriffs' Association
- International Association of Chiefs of Police
- Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police
- NOBLE
- Women in Public Safety
Community Leadership
Sheriff Maddox remains a strong advocate for community engagement, youth development, and public safety education throughout DeKalb County.
Through Woman 2 Woman Personal Awareness and Safety Training (W2W P.A.S.T.), she has helped empower women through personal safety education and awareness programs.
Her leadership continues to emphasize Excellence, Accountability, and Respect throughout every division of the Sheriff's Office.
Public service is more than a profession. It is a commitment to excellence, accountability, integrity, and creating safer communities for future generations.