Clarence F. Birkhead has served as Durham County’s sheriff since 2018, becoming the first African American to hold the position in the county’s history. Re-elected in 2022 with strong community support, he brings over 40 years of law enforcement experience, including leadership roles with Duke University Public Safety and as Chief of Police in Hillsborough.

As sheriff, Birkhead has prioritized transparency, community engagement, and accountability, establishing a Community Advisory Board and leading the office to achieve the rare “Triple Crown” of national accreditations. He has also advanced public safety initiatives such as Project Safe Neighborhoods and local gun buyback programs.

A North Carolina native, Birkhead holds degrees from Shaw University and Pfeiffer University and remains active in statewide and national law enforcement leadership.