Sheriff Michael D. Shea
Address: 851 Woodmere Ave. Traverse City, MI 49686
Telephone: 231-995-5001
Website: http://www.co.grand-traverse.mi.us/766/Sheriffs-Office
Sheriff Michael D. Shea proudly serves as the elected Sheriff of Grand Traverse County. Born and raised in Traverse City, Mike has deep roots in the Grand Traverse County community. Growing up on and taking over the family cherry orchard, Mike has been taught the value of hard work and dedication from a very young age. After graduating from Traverse City Central High School, Mike attended Michigan State University where he obtained a BS in Agricultural Engineering Technology (AET). He worked in the private sector for 17 years where he was responsible for the daily operations and management of a Fruit Processing Plant. He also sat on the Board of Directors and acted as Secretary of the Corporation, which furthered his experience with Business Management and strengthened his leadership skills.
After years of challenges within the local cherry industry Mike made the decision to fulfill his lifelong dream of obtaining a career in law enforcement, and this chapter has since proven to be the most rewarding. He enrolled in the police academy at Northwestern Michigan College and was hired by Grand Traverse County Sheriff’s Office in 2005. Over the past 20 years Mike has served the county in numerous capacities, including as a Road Patrol Deputy, Field Training Officer, Union Steward, Community Police Officer, Dive Team Member, Mission investigator, Detective, Undersheriff, and since 2023 as Sheriff.
Mike was awarded “Employee of the Year” in 2011 and received a life-saving award in 2009 for rendering aid to a citizen in cardiac arrest. He is a 21-year member of the Fraternal Order of Elks. Under Sheriff Shea’s leadership, Grand Traverse County Sheriff’s Office has focused their initiatives on transparency, mental health of employees and inmates, mobile crisis response, modernizing department technology, building community trust and enhancing community engagement. Sheriff Shea believes firmly in leading by example, not only internally within the Sheriff’s Office but also with the community that he serves.
Outside of his professional duties (including farming) Mike enjoys hunting, fishing and spending time outdoors. Mike lives with his wife of 38 years and takes every opportunity to spend time with his two adult children and their spouses, who all work in the public service sector. He’s a proud grandfather and loves spending time with his family.
