Jefferson County Sheriff Lafayette Woods Jr. announced the promotions of Lt. Glenn Barnes Jr., Cpl. Bradley Shell and Sgt. Deyonta Jones to their current ranks. Barnes’ promotion became effective March 1, according to a news release.
Glenn Barnes Jr.
Barnes began his career with the Dub Brassell Detention Center on July 1, 2011, serving as a deputy jailer. He was transferred to the Transport Division on April 15, 2013.
He was assigned to the Warrants Division on Aug. 1, 2013, where he earned the opportunity to attend the Arkansas Law Enforcement Training Academy (ALETA). Barnes graduated from ALETA on Dec. 20, 2013, and was transferred to the Uniformed Patrol Division on Jan. 16, 2014.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
He has advanced through the ranks within the Patrol Division, earning promotions to corporal on April 1, 2018, and sergeant on June 16, 2023.
Barnes is also a graduate of the University of Arkansas Criminal Justice Institute School of Law Enforcement Supervision, reflecting his continued commitment to professional growth leadership development, and excellence in service, according to the release.
“Lt. Barnes has demonstrated consistent dedication, professionalism, and a strong commitment to serving the citizens of Jefferson County. His progression through the ranks is a direct reflection of his leadership abilities and work ethic. We are confident he will continue to make a positive impact within the agency,” Woods said.
Bradley Shell
Shell’s promotion to corporal is effective immediately, according to the release.
Shell began his career with the sheriff’s office Feb. 2, 2019, as a patrolman in the Uniformed Patrol Division.
He graduated from the Central Arkansas Law Enforcement Training Academy on May 31, 2019, where he was recognized for his physical fitness and served as a squad leader for his class.
On Oct. 7, 2021, Shell became a certified field training officer, taking on a key role in mentoring and training new deputies. He was also certified as a K-9 handler Dec. 10, 2021, and partnered with K-9 Soder.
Shell and K-9 Soder earned national certification through the North American Police Work Dog Association (NAPWDA) on Oct. 5, 2023.
The corporal also serves as an operator and K-9 handler on the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office Special Response Team.
Throughout his career, Shell has been recognized multiple times as Patrolman of the Month and was honored as the 2022 Patrolman of the Year.
“Cpl. Shell has consistently demonstrated professionalism, initiative, and a strong commitment to service,” Woods said.
“This promotion reflects both his past accomplishments and our confidence in his continued leadership.”
Deyonta Jones
Jones’ promotion to sergeant was effective March 16, according to the release.
Jones began his career with the sheriff’s office Aug. 1, 2020, as a patrolman in the Uniformed Patrol Division. He graduated from ALETA on Dec. 11, 2020.
In recognition of his strong work ethic and leadership potential, Jones was promoted to corporal April 16, 2023. With the recent promotion, he will serve as the shift relief sergeant, according to the release.
Jones has received multiple honors as Patrolman of the Month and was recognized as the 2024 Patrolman of the Year.
“He is widely respected for his leadership, his ability to motivate and support fellow deputies, and his commitment to maintaining the highest standards of service within the Patrol Division,” according to the release.
Capt. Christopher Grider applauded Jones.
“This promotion is not simply a recognition of past performance, but a reflection of the responsibility we trust you to carry forward,” Grider said. “Your leadership, dedication, and professionalism have prepared you well for this role, and we are confident in your continued success.”
The sheriff’s office congratulated all three deputies on their well-earned promotions and looks forward to their continued service and leadership.