Donnie Pope Announces Candidacy for Sheriff
Donnie Pope, a life long resident of Jasper County and a 1992 graduate of Jasper County High School, has announced his candidacy for sheriff of Jasper County to succeed Charles Roper who has said he will not seek re-election.
Mr. Pope holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice from Georgia College and State University. Mr. Pope was also presented the “Most Outstanding Academic Major” award from the social science department his senior year.
Mr. Pope began employment with the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office in 1996 as a jailer under Sheriff Mack Tillman. Mr. Pope attended the Police Academy in 1997 where he graduated first in his class and achieved honors for the highest academic average. Mr. Pope successfully completed the rigorous DARE instructor program conducted by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation in 2000 where he received the most outstanding team member award. He is also a two-time recipient of the coveted “Top Gun” award presented by the Firearms Training Division of the State Police Academy at the Georgia Public Safety Training Center in Forsyth.
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Deputy Pope has held the position of Patrol Division Commander under Sheriff Charles Roper since 2001. The Patrol Division Commander is responsible for supervision of 16 deputies, courthouse security, warrant services, transports, and traffic enforcement, in addition to responding to 911 calls for service. His duties also encompass departmental training officer, firearms instructor and sheriff’s tactical squad commander.
He has accumulated over 1,900 hours of training recognized by the Georgia Peace Officers Standards and Training Council. Through this continuing education he has obtained supervision and management certification as well as completed chief’s executive level management training.
Mr. Pope has been married for 13 years to Johnna Ayers Pope, also of Monticello. They have two children, a daughter, Loren age 10, and a son, Boone age 5. Mr. Pope is a faithful member of Enon Baptist Church where he serves as a deacon and Sunday school teacher.
“I am very grateful to have been entrusted with the position that has allowed me to serve the people of Jasper County for the last 16 years. I am very proud to be from Jasper County, and I love the closeness of our community as well as all the people. We live in a very unique and awesome place.
“I have, however, seen significant changes in the needs and requirements for law enforcement and public safety in the last several years. I believe these needs will continue to grow as the county prospers. It is my intention to maintain a professional and courteous office that is prepared to meet any challenge the county may face.
“I have a great concern for the youth of our county. Because of my experience as a former DARE instructor, church youth director, 4-H coach, and as a current mentor in the Jasper County school system, I see the need for a program to bring law enforcement and youth together in a positive environment. I would like to develop a Junior Deputy program. I feel this type program would be very beneficial for our young people as well as develop local talent to better serve our county in the future.
“My goal is to preserve the safe and lawful environment we all currently enjoy and want for our children and community. I am a very strong advocate of public service. Through my administrative experience I know the importance of being financially responsible and managing a budget and resources.
“If elected I will maintain an office dedicated to providing the quality service the people of Jasper County desire and deserve. I humbly request your vote for Sheriff of Jasper County and would appreciate your support.”
