Capt. Tonatte Mitchell has shattered the glass ceiling at the Charleston Police Department. Her recent promotion to captain marks a historic milestone, making her the first Black woman to achieve this rank in the department’s history.
This groundbreaking achievement not only highlights Mitchell’s exceptional career but also signifies a step forward in diversity within law enforcement.
Breaking Barriers: A Journey of Perseverance and Dedication
Mitchell’s rise through the ranks has been a testament to her unwavering commitment and hard work. Her 28-year career with the Charleston Police Department has been marked by steady progression.
“In ’98 I got my first promotion to private first class, and then I moved to corporal which was our first line supervisor position and then I got promoted to sergeant, then here’s lieutenant,” Mitchell recounts.
The significance of her latest promotion is not lost on Mitchell. “It still hadn’t full hit me yet. But I was humbled. I was grateful that I was chosen to be the first African-American, Black captain — female captain,” she says.
However, Mitchell emphasizes that her achievement is about more than personal recognition. “It was just that it was an example for the community and females that look like me to say that it can happen no matter where you start from,” she adds.
From Public Housing to Police Captain: A Charleston Success Story
Mitchell’s journey is deeply rooted in Charleston. She grew up in Robert Mills Manor, a low-income public housing development. After graduating from Burke High School, she pursued higher education at Benedict College, earning a degree in criminal justice.
Her background has instilled in her a strong desire to give back. “It’s an honor and I’m humbled to do that. I always knew that I had something to give back to the community,” Mitchell shares. Now serving in the very community she grew up in, she sees her role as coming full circle.
A Legacy of Service: Following in Family Footsteps
Law enforcement runs in Mitchell’s family. Her grandfather, Harry B. Smith, served as a Charleston Police officer before helping to establish the North Charleston Police Department. Additionally, her father was a fireman. “So law enforcement was always in my heart,” Mitchell reflects.
This family legacy has clearly influenced Mitchell’s career path. Her promotion to captain is not just a personal achievement but also a continuation of her family’s commitment to public service.
Addressing Diversity in Law Enforcement: Challenges and Opportunities
Mitchell’s promotion highlights the ongoing need for diversity in law enforcement. According to a 2020 U.S. Department of Justice report, only 11.6% of full-time police officers in local departments were Black, while 13.5% were women.
Recognizing this disparity, Mitchell is actively involved in recruitment efforts. “We are going to like local schools, colleges. We are recruiting that minority part that’s missing from this department,” she explains. Her presence as a high-ranking Black woman officer serves as inspiration for others considering a career in law enforcement.
Beyond the Badge: Community Engagement and Mentorship
Mitchell’s commitment extends beyond her official duties. She is an active youth mentor, a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and is involved in her church.
Her focus on community development is evident in her recent initiatives. “My team and I were able to open two community centers here. One here in Gadsden Green, which is like five minutes away, and the other in Robert Mills Manor where I grew up at,” she proudly states.
These community centers provide valuable resources for adults and create safe environments for children. Mitchell’s dedication to improving her community demonstrates that her role as a police officer is about more than enforcing laws—it’s about making a positive impact on people’s lives.
