From the Field

FDSA Board Spotlight: Sheriff AJ Smith, Franklin County

With a resume that includes more than 38 years in law enforcement, Franklin County Sheriff A.J. Smith knows a thing or two about law enforcement. As the founding executive director of the Florida Deputy Sheriffs Association, Sheriff Smith used much of that experience to mold the association into what is today. While he no longer serves in that role, Sheriff Smith continues to serve the association as a board member.

Sheriff Smith began his journey in law enforcement in 1980 as a deputy with the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, where he served for seven years. He then joined the Leon County Sheriff’s Office and rose to the rank of detective. He then worked with the Florida Department of Insurance as a lieutenant and chief of special operations before becoming the chief of law enforcement of the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation’s Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco.

Before being elected sheriff of Franklin County in 2016, Smith served as chief deputy in Walton County.

In addition to his work duties, Sheriff Smith has always found time to support organizations and causes he believes in. He has played a pivotal role at organizations such as the State Law Enforcement Chiefs Association, Florida Deputy Sheriffs Association, Florida Police Chiefs Association, Florida Sheriffs Association, National Sheriffs Association, American Society Law Enforcement Trainers and the National Rifle Association.

He enjoys volunteering with local charities such as Cops for Kids, Christmas Connection, Ramp it Up, Big Bend Hospice, Tallahassee Police Athletic League, Apalachicola Chamber of Commerce and Carrabelle Chamber of Commerce.

Sheriff Smith earned a bachelor’s degree in public administration from Barry University, and is an instructor from the Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission. He is also certified in law enforcement basic, advanced curriculum and high liabilities.

FDSA is grateful to have Sheriff Smith as a member of the Board.