Sheriff Stacy Nicholson
706-635-4162
Sheriff Stacy Nicholson proudly serves as the elected Sheriff of Gilmer County, Georgia. He is the 36th individual entrusted with this role in the county’s 192-year history.
First elected by the citizens in 2004, Nicholson officially took office in January 2005. He has served continuously since becoming the longest-serving Sheriff in Gilmer County history.
In 2024, Sheriff Nicholson was re-elected to a sixth term without opposition — a testament to the community’s enduring confidence in his leadership, integrity, and commitment to public service.
A 34-year law enforcement veteran, Sheriff Nicholson’s career began on March 3, 1991, at the Gilmer County Sheriff’s Office. His journey through the ranks gave him firsthand experience in every corner of the agency.
He has served as a Jailer, Radio Dispatcher, Patrol Deputy, Criminal Investigator, Chief of Investigations, and Public Information Officer. This extensive foundation of experience uniquely positioned him to understand the needs of both the agency and the citizens it serves, leading to his election as Sheriff.
Throughout his career, Sheriff Nicholson has maintained an unwavering focus on professionalism, accountability, and the safety and well-being of Gilmer County residents. Under his leadership, the Sheriff’s Office has consistently advanced in technology integration, crime prevention, professional training, community outreach, and victim support initiatives.
Sheriff Nicholson is actively involved in multiple local, regional, and state professional organizations. His leadership roles and affiliations include:
- Current President, Constitutional Officers’ Association of Georgia (2024–Present)
- Past Vice President, Constitutional Officers’ Association of Georgia (2023–2024)
- Past President, Georgia Sheriffs’ Association (2018–2019)
- Member, Georgia Sheriffs’ Association Training and Standards Committee
- Past Region 1 Vice President, Georgia Sheriffs’ Association
- Executive Board Officer, Gilmer County Family Connection
- Past President, Fraternal Order of Police, Appalachian Lodge #92
- Past Board Member, Appalachian Children’s Center
Sheriff Nicholson studied Criminal Justice at Berry College and North Georgia College, blending academic knowledge with his deep practical experience.
A proud native son, Sheriff Nicholson has lived in Gilmer County his whole life. He graduated from Gilmer High School in 1989, where he was a member of the Bobcat football and baseball teams. Even today, he remains a passionate supporter of Gilmer County athletics and proudly carries the spirit of the “Bobcats” with him.
Beyond his professional achievements, Sheriff Nicholson is committed to fostering strong community relationships, emphasizing transparency, and maintaining citizens’ trust in their Sheriff’s Office. His leadership style reflects a balance of tradition, innovation, and a heartfelt dedication to the people he is honored to serve.
