Sheriff Kenneth Barrett

Sheriff Kenneth Barrett was elected Sheriff of Rutherford County on August 6, 2026, bringing more than 28 years of law enforcement experience to the office.

Sheriff Barrett began his career with the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office in 1998 as a deputy in the Adult Detention Center. In 1999, he was selected for patrol, where he served with the Special Enforcement Bureau and Interstate Crime Enforcement.

Sheriff Barrett was promoted to Corporal in 2006 and Sergeant in 2007. In 2010, he was promoted to Lieutenant, where he oversaw several specialized units, including Interstate Crime Enforcement, the K9 Unit, Mounted Patrol, Special Response Team (SRT), Active Crime Enforcement (ACE), and Marine Patrol.

In 2025, Sheriff Barrett completed the FBI-LEEDA Trilogy Leadership Program, further strengthening his leadership and professional development.

A lifelong Rutherford County resident, Sheriff Barrett is a graduate of Oakland High School. He was raised in the Walter Hill community by his parents, Jim and Kay Barrett. His father, Jim, was a well-respected employee of the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office, continuing a family legacy of service to the community.

Sheriff Barrett is married to his wife, Sandra, and together they own and operate Silver Hill Medical Clinic. They have two daughters, Kiley and Elley. The Barrett family attends Holly Grove Baptist Church in Walter Hill.

Sheriff Barrett is honored to serve the citizens of Rutherford County and is committed to leading the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office with integrity, accountability, transparency, and a commitment to service.