Prince George’s County Sheriff: 2026 Maryland Voter Guide

What’s the job: Duties differ by jurisdiction. In some counties, the sheriff is the chief law enforcement officer. In other jurisdictions, the sheriff is primarily responsible for courtroom security and enforcing court orders, such as evictions. Elected to a four-year term.

Democratic

Name: John D. B. Carr

Age on Nov. 3, 2026: 48

Personal: John D.B. Carr is a proud lifelong Prince George’s County resident who lives in Brandywine with his wife and four children. A native of Suitland, he attended Bishop McNamara High School, then stayed in Prince George’s County to attend the University of Maryland at College Park, where he received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice. With over 20 years of service, he has worked his way through each rank and served in every bureau within the Office of the Sheriff, building an unmatched foundation of experience and institutional knowledge. Carr’s roots run deep in this county — as a son, a husband, a father, and a public servant — and that personal connection to community drives everything he does in service to the residents of Prince George’s County.

Education: John D.B. Carr is a graduate of Bishop McNamara High School in Forestville, Maryland, and a committed member of Prince George’s County’s educational community. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Criminology and Criminal Justice from the University of Maryland at College Park and a Master’s in Public Administration from Norwich University.

Carr’s dedication to education includes teaching the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) Leadership in Police Organization program to law enforcement leaders across Maryland. He is committed to sharing his knowledge and experience with future public safety professionals.John D.B. Carr exemplifies community-oriented law enforcement and is a respected leader in Prince George’s County. His academic achievements, professional dedication, and strong community ties represent the best of the county.

Experience: John D.B. Carr has dedicated his career to public service in Prince George’s County. Starting as a front-line law enforcement officer and advancing through every rank in the Office of the Sheriff, he is recognized for his excellence, integrity, and commitment to community safety.

Sheriff, Prince George’s County Office of the Sheriff: Elected and sworn in as the 118th Sheriff in December 2022, Sheriff Carr leads one of Maryland’s largest Sheriff’s Offices. Under his leadership, the Office has launched the county’s first Citizens Academy, established a Behavioral Health Unit to address mental health crises, developed programs for youth and seniors, prioritized apprehending dangerous offenders, and is working to build comprehensive domestic violence services.

Assistant Sheriff, Prince George’s County Office of the Sheriff: Before his election, John D.B. Carr served as one of three Assistant Sheriffs, providing executive leadership, operational oversight, and strategic direction across multiple bureaus.

Law Enforcement Career, Prince George’s County Office of the Sheriff: With over 20 years of service, Sheriff Carr advanced through every rank and bureau, gaining experience in courts, warrant apprehension, domestic violence intervention, community outreach, and mental health services.

Member, Prince George’s County Democratic Central Committee: Carr has served on the Committee for eight years, demonstrating his commitment to civic engagement and public service beyond law enforcement. His role reflects his investment in the county’s political and civic life and his dedication to representing residents.

Instructor, International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP): Carr taught the IACP Leadership in Police Organization program to law enforcement leaders across Maryland, demonstrating his commitment to professional development and advancing public safety leadership.

Community Service & Public Engagement: Throughout his career, Carr has built partnerships with organizations, courts, hospitals, faith leaders, and civic groups to advance public safety and improve quality of life in Prince George’s County. He has also championed Purple Light Nights for 12 consecutive years to raise awareness about domestic violence.