Jermaine Smith

Jermaine Smith has established a multifaceted career defined by public safety, law enforcement, community engagement, leadership, and entrepreneurship. After earning an associate degree in Criminal Justice from Spartanburg Methodist College, he entered a law-enforcement career that would span more than 25 years. His professional background includes 10 years with the Department of Correction, along with service with Union Public Safety, the Sheriff’s Office, and the FBI Gang Task Force. During this time, he developed broad experience in law enforcement, firefighting, SWAT operations, and gang investigations. His career has been distinguished by a commitment to protecting others, responding to complex public-safety situations, and serving the communities in which he worked. After retiring from law enforcement in 2020, Smith continued to apply his knowledge and experience in roles focused on security and public service.

In 2021, Smith expanded his community-focused work by serving as an Awareness Coordinator in Union County, South Carolina, where he supported efforts designed to increase awareness, education, and community engagement. This experience complemented his longstanding involvement in programs connecting public-safety professionals with the communities they serve. Since 2022, Smith has continued his public-safety career as a Court Security Officer with the United States Marshals Service. In this role, he helps maintain security within federal courthouse environments and assists with detainee management and transportation assignments across multiple states. His professional preparation includes training through the FBI, U.S. Marshals Service, Firefighter Academy, and Department of Correction Academy, providing a strong foundation for the responsibilities he has undertaken throughout his career.

Alongside his public-service career, Smith has pursued entrepreneurship and real estate, managing rental properties and vacation homes through his own ventures and Airbnb. His leadership extends beyond his formal employment, having served as a union representative and shop steward and participated in initiatives designed to educate and support young people. His involvement in school awareness programs and community mentorship reflects his belief in the importance of guidance, accountability, and positive engagement with the next generation. Smith's career reflects an ongoing commitment to service and professional growth, combining decades of public-safety experience with community leadership and entrepreneurial pursuits. Through each chapter of his career, he has continued to seek meaningful ways to contribute to others while building opportunities for himself and his community.