James W. Phillips, Jr.

James W. Phillips, Jr. has served as the Sheriff of Dorchester County, Maryland, since December 2002. A Republican, he was re-elected in the 2022 general election. Born in Cambridge, Maryland, Phillips is a graduate of North Dorchester High School. His law enforcement career began as a police communications officer, and he worked his way up through the ranks in patrol, narcotics, and criminal investigations before becoming sheriff. He is a member of the Maryland Sheriffs' Association and has served as president of the Maryland Sheriffs' Institute. Phillips is a charter member of the North Dorchester Jaycees and a longtime member of the East New Market Volunteer Fire Department.