It's a milestone when a law enforcement officer can have a lengthy career and retire on their own terms. It's another when a married couple-working within the same agency-can retire together.
That's the case this week from the Gwinnett County Police Department (GCPD). Deputy Chief Gale Higginbotham and her husband, Corporal Joel Shackelford, are retiring after spending 28 and 10 years, respectively, within GCPD's ranks.
The GCPD's Facebook page shows that Deputy Chief Higginbotham, a native of Gwinnett County, attended North Georgia College and worked as a DJ on AM radio and a firefighter. While she enjoyed what she did, her true calling soon became clear. Higginbotham began her illustrious career with Gwinnett Police in November 1996. During her career, she has served in many areas, including Special Operations, Uniform, Training, Detectives/Investigations, and Administration.
Also, a native of Bucyrus, Ohio, Corporal Shackelford joined the Gwinnett County Police Department in 2014. He has served in the Uniform Division and as an aid to the Assistant Chief. Before coming to Gwinnett, Corporal Shackelford served for 14 years in the Lantana, Florida and South Palm Beach, Florida police departments.
Both officers are planning to spend more time with immediate family members, and travelling around the world together.
http://accesswdun.com/article/2024/12/1277665/gwinnett-county-police-couple-retiring-from-active-service