Meet Keybo Taylor | Sheriff of Gwinnett County, Georgia

We had the good fortune of connecting with Keybo Taylor and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Keybo, how has your background shaped the person you are today?
I was born and raised in Lawrenceville, Georgia, and have had the experience of working for over 30 years in law enforcement in Gwinnett County. I grew up in the Sally Craig Apartments where I was raised by my aunt, a single woman who worked hard to make sure I had everything I needed and most of what I wanted. I played football and had a number of positive role models, including Chief Dan Meeks who frequented our neighborhood and built trust with all the kids. He was respected a great deal.

Back then, I never anticipated I’d pursue a career in law enforcement. In 2020, I was elected Sheriff. This path has become my means of reciprocating the support from my community. As Sheriff, it is both an honor and a privilege to serve and protect, and I am grateful for the opportunity to make a positive impact in this capacity.

I have three children and eight grandchildren; therefore, it is my priority to ensure Gwinnett County remains a safe place for our families to live, work, and thrive. As a former youth football coach, it important that I continue to mentor our youth with a focus on positive decision-making.

History was made in 2020, but this road was never about making history. It’s about making a lasting difference.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I joined the Gwinnett County Police Department in 1983. During this time, I worked in undercover investigations that encompassed Criminal and Special Investigations. By 1994, I was assigned to the FBI Drug Task Force. I continued my career as a supervisor in the Uniform Division and served as a supervisor in Special Operations (COPS Program) and Criminal Investigations (Narcotics Squad).

In 2000, I served as a Unit Commander leading the Gwinnett County Drug Task Force. By 2007, I managed both the East and South precincts in Gwinnett County. I credit a significant portion of my career advancement to my educational and professional development. I earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Mercer University and a master’s degree in public administration from Columbus State University.

I received the Intermediate, Advanced, Supervision, and Management certifications through the Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training Council (POST); and I am also a Certified General Post Instructor, a graduate of the Georgia Law Enforcement Command College Class X, a graduate of the DEA Drug Unit Command Academy, and a certified Crisis Intervention Trainer.

I often reflect on my progression through the ranks in law enforcement and facing adversity with a firm belief that, “Failure wasn’t final.” I would like to share with readers to be grateful for your journey. It will make you stronger and wiser. Be open to new experiences and opportunities.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I would take my best friend to one of the many ceremonial observances or festivals that occur in Gwinnett County. Gwinnett is one of the most culturally diverse places in the state of Georgia and its evolution over the years is evident in the strides we have made towards unity.

With over 50 parks, there are many opportunities to celebrate the different backgrounds that make up our community. My best friend and I would attend the Multicultural Festival, held annually at Gwinnett Place Mall. There are vibrant performances and traditional cuisines offered throughout the day. Attendees from Asian, Hispanic, Caribbean, and many other backgrounds join together to engage and cultivate relationships with one another.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
There has been significant progress in Gwinnett County. In the past four years, the Gwinnett County Sheriff’s Office (GCSO) has established specialized units dedicated to community outreach, human trafficking, gangs, and mental health. With a population of over a million residents within 16 municipalities, Gwinnett deputies have demonstrated the power of community partnerships and collaborative efforts.

The GCSO Community Outreach Team successfully organized annual community events, such as the Back-to-School Bash and Thanksgiving Food Giveaway, distributing thousands of backpacks, supplies, resources, and food items to the community.

The GCSO Trafficking and Child Exploitation (TRACE) and Gang Units were created to combat organized crime and protect our most vulnerable citizens. Each year, they have partnered with federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies including the FBI, DEA, GBI, county police, and local municipalities to target child exploitation, violations of narcotics and controlled substances laws, vice crimes, and gang activities.

The GCSO Mental Health Task Force has carried out its mission to advocate, educate, and enforce the shift of mentally ill persons out of the criminal justice system and into proper care facilities. The Task Force consists of certified peace officers, a Clinical Director, and a Commander. They have successfully completed hundreds of community calls that have resulted in zero arrests.

I commend each member of the Gwinnett County Sheriff’s Office for their dedication and commitment to our community.

Website: https://www.KeyboForSheriff.com

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Image Credits
Photography Credit: Gwinnett County Sheriff’s Office – Communications Unit