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 Sheriff of Grand Traverse County. Born and raised in Traverse City, Sheriff Shea has deep roots in the community and a lifelong commitment to serving the people of Grand Traverse County.
Growing up on his family’s cherry orchard and then taking over its operation, Mike learned the value of hard work, perseverance, and dedication from an early age. After graduating from Traverse City Central High School, he attended Michigan State University, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Engineering Technology.
Before entering law enforcement, Mike spent 17 years in the private sector, managing the daily operations of a fruit processing facility. He also served on the company’s Board of Directors and as Secretary of the Corporation, gaining valuable experience in business management, leadership, and organizational responsibility.
In 2005, Mike followed a lifelong dream of serving in law enforcement and joined the Grand Traverse County Sheriff’s Office after graduating from the police academy at Northwestern Michigan College. During his career, he has served as a Road Patrol Deputy, Field Training Officer, Community Police Officer, Dive Team Member, Mission Investigator, Detective, and Undersheriff. In 2023, he was appointed Sheriff and was elected Sheriff in 2024, securing more than 83 percent of the vote.
Sheriff Shea was named the Sheriff’s Office Employee of the Year in 2011 and received a lifesaving award in 2009. In 2026, he was recognized by Northwestern Michigan College as an Outstanding Alumni.
Under his leadership, the Sheriff’s Office has emphasized transparency, employee and inmate well-being, peer support and mentoring, mobile crisis response, technology modernization, community trust, and engagement.
Outside of his professional duties and farming, Mike enjoys hunting, fishing, and the outdoors. He and his wife of 39 years are proud parents of two adult children and grandparents who cherish time with their family.
