Sabrina Tapp Harper Becomes Baltimore City's First Female Sheriff

Sabrina Tapp Harper won the November 3 election to become Baltimore City’s first woman and first Black woman sheriff. She has nearly 40 years of law‑enforcement experience, including 26 years with the Baltimore Police Department where she retired as a major after serving in five districts and leading the Special Investigations Division.

After retiring, Harper joined the Baltimore City Sheriff’s Office, heading its domestic‑violence unit and later serving as assistant sheriff—the highest rank previously held by a woman. She said the role fulfills a lifelong dream and will allow her to contribute to the city where she was born and raised. A swearing‑in ceremony is expected once election results are certified.