Chief Deputy Justin Smith started his law enforcement career in 2003 with the Olive Branch Police Department. After seven years serving at OBPD, Smith joined the Desoto County Sheriff's Office in 2010 as a patrolman.
Shortly after joining the Sheriff’s Office, Smith joined the SWAT Team, as well as the Special Investigations Division, where he worked his way through the ranks to become the Captain of Investigative Services and commander of the DeSoto County SWAT Team. After graduating the FBI National Academy in 2020, Smith was promoted to Chief Deputy. Chief Deputy Smith’s extensive background in investigations, paired with his extensive leadership training and experience, has provided him with a unique perspective on curtailing crime and providing an excellent quality of life for the citizens of DeSoto County. Chief Deputy Smith is a lifelong DeSoto Countian who graduated from Olive Branch High School and has dedicated his life’s work to his community.
As Chief Deputy, Smith is the designated authority of Sheriff Tuggle in the day-to-day operations of the office and is authorized to make decisions on behalf of Sheriff Tuggle in his absence. He also maintains his status as a certified law enforcement officer and has the authority to perform all law enforcement-related actions as needed.
