Conversations with Daron Hall

Today we’d like to introduce you to Daron Hall. 

Daron, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I was born and raised in Nashville, Tenn. When I was 16, I read the book Helter Skelter, a story about Charles Manson and the brutal murders of innocent people in California in the late 1960s. From that point forward, I have been on a crusade to understand “the why.” I left Nashville to attend Western Kentucky University, majoring in Criminology. My college internship allowed me to work in several rural Kentucky county jails. After two years of graduate school, I returned to Nashville and began working at the Davidson County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO). In 1990, I went to work for a private prison company and soon thereafter, moved to Australia to participate in a management exchange program. Four years later, I came back to the DCSO as chief deputy. In 2002, I ran for office and became the youngest elected sheriff in Nashville Metropolitan Government history. I am currently in my fifth term. 

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Clearly, not everyone agrees with my philosophy of focusing on “the why.” Instead, locking up/throwing away the key, three strikes you’re out, and warehousing people have been popular with society over the years. These philosophies did nothing but create dangerous overcrowded jails and prisons. More importantly, inmates released were not equipped to succeed in society because their addiction and mental health needs were never addressed. 

My challenge is to convince political leaders and the community we should focus our energy and resources on intensive programming, alternatives to incarceration, and criminal justice reform efforts. Although I have seen improvements, the political divide in our country continues to threaten our opportunity for substantial change. 

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am the sheriff of Nashville-Davidson County, Tennessee. Although most sheriffs focus on arrests, during my 34-year law enforcement career, I have chosen to specialize on arresting the problem, not the person. In the last 10 years, our inmate programs have contributed to a 50% jail population reduction. We strive to make the person better while incarcerated so when released they can contribute positively. I run the most racially diverse organization in Nashville and one of the few in the country that mirrors the community it represents. Additionally, I conceptualized and, in 2020 opened, the first Behavioral Care Center of its kind. The purpose is to decriminalize and destigmatize mental illness. 

What do you like and dislike about the city?
Best: As a lifelong Nashvillian, I am astounded at the spotlight that shines on our city. The explosive country music scene, professional sports, and relocation of international businesses makes me proud. 

Least: The lack of public/mass transportation options. 

Contact Info:

• Website: www.sheriff.nashville.gov
• Instagram: nashvillesheriff
• Facebook: Nashville Sheriff: Davidson County Sheriff’s Office
• Twitter: @nashsheriff
• Youtube: DCSOvideo

Image Credits
Reggie Scott
Mark Preville