From Hoops Star To Top Cop
On December 6, 2022, Everett Sesker officially made history when he was sworn in as the first-ever African-American Sheriff of Anne Arundel County. His groundbreaking election capped a long career in law enforcement that began with playing college basketball.
The Tracys Landing resident and South River High School alum towered on the court at 6-foot-9. After earning a sports scholarship to Winthrop University, Sesker added communications and political science to his skillset.
But beyond athletics, Sesker discovered a passion for criminal justice. He joined the Prince George’s County Police Department in 1990 – steadily rising up the ranks over 22 years while working assignments from patrol officer to internal investigator sergeant.
Sweeping Democrats To Victory
In 2022, Sesker leveraged his diverse policing expertise to launch a campaign on progressive reforms for the sheriff’s office. His bold vision and countywide support helped lead a “blue wave” sweep of courthouse positions traditionally held by Republicans.
Sesker ultimately claimed a tight victory against incumbent Sheriff Jim Fredericks. Joining Clerk Scott Poyer and State’s Attorney Anne Colt Leitess to usher in a new era of Democratic leadership within Anne Arundel’s judicial system.
While recognized as an African American pioneer, Sesker has emphasized his diverse qualifications rather than identity politics. Still, he acknowledges the symbolic pull of shattering over 360 years of sheriff precedence as a role model.
Mandate For Community Action
Now in office, Sheriff Sesker is fulfilling his platform promises to engage with residents across Anne Arundel County. His initiatives promote greater collaboration between law enforcement agencies to tackle socioeconomic sources of crime proactively.
Sesker has already appointed Deputy Sheriff Angie Hines as a dedicated community relations liaison to boost public outreach efforts. He also met with his predecessor Sheriff Fredericks to ensure a smooth transition of knowledge despite their electoral clash.
At just two years into Sheriff Everett Sesker’s ongoing tenure, his presence has already helped modernize perceptions of law enforcement leadership within the county. But his greatest legacy may be the next generation of young minority deputies inspired to follow his footsteps.
