Marshal Joe Shumate has been recognized on a national stage for his service to the community.
Shumate was awarded National Marshal of the Year by the National Constables and Marshals Association during the organization’s 2025 President’s Awards Banquet. The annual honor is presented to a marshal who demonstrates exceptional leadership, dedication, and commitment to public service.
Shumate was appointed in 2017 as Marshal by then-Governor John Bel Edwards replacing previous Marshal Jerry Denton, when Denton left to run for City Court Judge. Shumate has run unopposed all three times - 2017, 2020, and 2024.
“I came from a civil service background, so I had to learn the ropes of how civil work is done as a marshal, which Jerry taught me,” Shumate said in 2017. “But I don’t consider myself a politician – I consider myself a professional lawman.”
Shumate – who is closing in on his 50th year in law enforcement – is hardly a stranger to the Marshal’s Office.
He came aboard as captain Jan. 4, 2010, four days after he retired at the rank of captain from the Denham Springs Police Department, where he served 32 years. Denton promoted Shumate chief deputy – second in command – a year later.
“The eight years under Jerry Denton prepared me for the job I’ve assumed,” Shumate said. “We have a wonderful staff here and we will continue to be productive serving the community.”
A marshal and his deputies handle arrest warrants, evictions, and seizure of vehicles. They also process garnishments, work with the fugitive task force and assist other law enforcement agencies.
“Some people forget that we are vested law enforcement officers,” Shumate said. “During the flood, we helped out the reserves, and our people were out working even when their own homes had flooded.
“We worked with our community and came back strong,” he said.
During Shumate’s long DSPD tenure, he served as a communications officer and later became a road officer. He then served as a detective, sergeant, and eventually captain. He also had a brief stint as interim chief in 1989, but went back to the post as captain, which he held until his retirement from DPSD in 2009.
The 1975 graduate of Denham Springs High School also attended law enforcement school at LSU and Southeastern Louisiana University.
The National Constables and Marshals Association is a nonprofit professional organization that represents constables and marshals across the United States. Founded to promote training, networking, and advocacy within the field, the association hosts annual conferences, provides educational resources, and works to uphold professional standards for its members. Each year, the group recognizes individuals who demonstrate outstanding service and leadership in their roles, including its National Marshal of the Year award.
Local officials and community members congratulated Shumate on the honor, praising his continued dedication to serving and protecting the residents of Livingston Parish.
