Sheriff William “Will” Bowman was born in Ideal, Georgia; however, he spent most of his childhood between Fulton County and DeKalb County. Bowman graduated from Gordon High School in 1982 and enlisted in the United States Army in 1985. He married Tanya in 2008 and has five children: Sirron, Tenara, Michael, Taniyah, and Taneiha.
He retired from the United States Army in 2005 as a senior noncommissioned officer after 20 years as an Engineer Mechanic. During his years of service, his duty stations included Ft Leonardwood (Missouri), Ft Benning (Georgia), Ft Hood (Texas), Scholfield Barrack (Hawaii), Berlin (Germany), and Ft Eustis (Virginia). He truly enjoyed most of his time while in the Army. He held many of the most challenging leadership positions, one being a drill sergeant at Ft Leonardwood. He was deployed many times in support of American Interests and Operations. He received several awards and decorations for outstanding service such as the Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Medal, Outstanding Volunteer Service Ribbon, and the Bronze De Fleury medal-the highest award for professional excellence in the Engineer Regiment.
After his time in the Army, he became a Georgia State Trooper. He attended the 82nd GSP School and was chosen as the sergeant-at-arms for his class. As a Georgia State Trooper, he was selected as Georgia State Trooper of the Year in 2015 and 2018. He received advanced-level training in traffic accident investigation, crisis intervention, DUI detection, and tactics and pursuit. The governor of Georgia also recognized him for outstanding public service. He provided security for numerous dignitary visits for the president of the United States, the vice-president, and former presidents of the United States, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and numerous foreign heads of state, the United States Secret Service, State Department, and the Department of Defense. The Mothers Against Drunk Driving (M.A.D.D.) recognized him for outstanding support. The United States Marshal program recognized him for his dedication and service, and he received a Special Deputation by the US Marshals’ program. He has received letters of community appreciation from local schools, churches, and civic organizations for his unwavering support of community programs. He retired in 2020 when he ran for Sheriff and was elected Sheriff of Liberty County.
As a 20-year law enforcement veteran, he prioritizes the safety of his community and integrates leaders at all levels to support and assist our citizens while remaining transparent in his efforts.
The main pillars of his vision for the Liberty County Sheriff’s Office revolve around crime reduction and public safety, improved jail conditions (which will result in better and more efficient use of tax dollars), repeat offenders, reentry, use-of-force police review, and accountability.