Sharon Douglas began her distinguished law enforcement career with the Baton Rouge Police Department on November 29, 2004, as a graduate of the 70th Basic Training Academy. Almost nearly 22 years of dedicated service as a criminal justice professional, she has served the community in a broad range of operational, instructional, and executive leadership roles. Her assignments have included patrol officer, field training officer, background investigator, police detective, recruiter, range safety officer, crisis intervention officer, academy instructor, internal affairs investigator, special projects coordinator to the chief, grant manager, leadership committee member, training academy staff instructor, staff supervisor, and training academy director. 

A recognized leader in law enforcement training and professional standards, Sharon is certified as a Senior Master Instructor for Louisiana P.O.S.T., where she contributed to the development of training curricula used by basic training academies across the state. She also holds certifications as a Fair and Impartial Policing Instructor and a Procedural Justice Instructor. Throughout her career, she has received numerous commendations and has served on multiple boards, reflecting her unwavering commitment to integrity, excellence, and public service. 

In recognition of her exceptional leadership and service, Chief Thomas Morse appointed Sharon as Deputy Chief of Police and Chief of Staff—the second-highest rank within the Baton Rouge Police Department. This historic appointment marked the highest rank ever attained by a woman in the department’s history, solidifying her legacy as a trailblazer in the police profession. In her current role, Sharon assists the Chief of Police with managing an annual budget exceeding $100 million, helps execute the department’s strategic plan, and provides executive oversight of day-to-day operations. She plays a critical role in organizational decision-making, policy development, personnel management, interdepartmental coordination, and operational readiness, ensuring the department functions efficiently, responsibly, and in alignment with its mission to serve and protect the community. 

Sharon is a 1999 graduate of Plaquemine High School and earned a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Administration and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Phoenix, completing both degrees with honorable distinction. She is pursuing a Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership, with an emphasis in Organizational Development, at Grand Canyon University. 

Beyond her professional service, Sharon remains deeply engaged in civic, professional, and service-oriented organizations. She serves as Chapter President of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, Omicron Sigma Zeta Chapter, and holds membership in the National Association of Women Law Enforcement Executives, the National Association of Parliamentarians, the Baton Rouge Union of Police, the Magnolia State Peace Officers’ Association, and Women in Government of Baton Rouge. She also serves on the Board of Directors for the Bridge Center for Hope. 

Outside of her professional and civic commitments, Sharon has been married to her husband, Eric, for 19 years. Together, they are the proud parents of five children and grandparents to three grandsons. In her personal time, she enjoys playing softball and attending antique car shows with her family.