Service Knows No Gender; Only Dedication: St. Mary’s County Women In Uniform Lead The Way

LEONARDTOWN, Md. — As Women’s History Month comes to a close, The BayNet is recognizing a group of women whose work often goes unseen, but whose impact is felt every single day. Across patrol units, correctional facilities, and school hallways, women in public safety are serving on the front lines and behind the scenes, redefining what strength, leadership, and service look like in their community.

From answering 911 calls to managing high-pressure situations inside the detention center, these women are more than officers; they are mentors, problem-solvers, and a steady presence during life’s most difficult moments.

For many, the path into public safety wasn’t defined by a single moment, but by a deep-rooted desire to serve.

“I don’t think there was one specific thing,” said Deputy First Class Jessica Wilson of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Division. “It was always something I was interested in. More than anything, it was people who inspired me.”

Others were drawn by the challenge and opportunity to make a difference.

“I wanted a career that was challenging, where I could grow and make a positive impact,” Lt. Sherry Harrison, a shift commander at the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center, said. “This felt like the right fit.”

The BayNet spoke with Deputy First Class Jessica Wilson of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Division; Cpl. Jaime Davis, a school resource officer at Leonardtown High School; Lt. Sherry Harrison, a shift commander at the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center; and Sgt. Catherine Poole, who serves in operations at the facility. Together, their experiences offer a powerful look at the many ways women are serving and leading across the county’s public safety system.

Challenging Perceptions

As they serve, many of these women are also breaking down long-standing misconceptions.

“There’s a misconception that because you’re a female, the job is different,” Deputy Wilson explained. “But we’re expected to respond to the same high-risk calls, make split-second decisions, and meet the exact same standards.”

Cpl. Jaime Davis, school resource officer at Leonardtown High School with the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office, echoed that sentiment, pointing to a long-standing stereotype she has seen challenged throughout her career.

“It is often misunderstood that women cannot handle themselves in certain situations,” Cpl. Davis said. “In my 20 years in the department, I have yet to meet a woman officer who can’t handle herself. Our women go into battle several times a day and are dedicated to getting the job done.”

She added that women have firmly established their place in the profession.

“We have earned our spot in this profession and you are worthy of it,” she said. “We are respected amongst our peers and accepted as part of a team.”

Inside the correctional division, the reality is just as demanding and often misunderstood.

“It’s not just about control,” Lt. Sherry Harrison said. “You wear a lot of hats. You’re dealing with people facing mental health crises, addiction, and difficult life situations. You have to be patient, sometimes a counselor, sometimes authoritative but always fair.”

Their experiences highlight a broader truth: success in public safety is not defined by gender, but by training, resilience, and professionalism.

Strength And Compassion

While the expectations are equal, many say being a woman brings added strength to the job, particularly in communication and de-escalation.

“They bring a sense of calmness and compassion to chaotic situations,” Deputy Wilson said. “But when it’s time to act, they do exactly what needs to be done.”

ALisa Casas, the public information officer with the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office, emphasized that those strengths are backed by the same rigorous training across the board.

“Every deputy goes through the exact same training, and they are all highly professionally trained,” she said. “As it relates to women specifically, their ability to de-escalate complex situations is something we’re really proud of.”

That ability to balance empathy with authority is often what leaves a lasting impression on those they serve.

Moments That Matter

For these women, the most meaningful moments are often the ones that happen quietly.

Cpl. Jaime Davis recalled reconnecting with a domestic violence survivor weeks after responding to her case.

“She thanked me for helping her find the strength to leave,” she said. “Moments like that keep you showing up every day.”

Cpl. Davis shared in detail the moment she says she will never forget.

“While at the courthouse one day, I came across a victim of a domestic assault whom I had handled a few weeks before,” Davis said. “She came up to me and thanked me for helping her get the strength she needed to leave an abusive relationship. She said that having two female officers there showed her that she, too, can be strong.”

Cpl. Davis said the encounter left a lasting impression.

“We see people in their darkest hours, but experiences like this keep me showing up every day,” she said.

Sgt. Catherine Poole shared similar impressionable experiences.

“I’ve run into people in the community who I remember from here,” she said. “Seeing them doing well, staying out, living their lives; that’s everything.”

Those moments, they say, are reminders that their work reaches far beyond a single shift.

Serving And Inspiring

Beyond their daily responsibilities, these women are also role models, especially for young girls who may not yet see themselves in these roles.

“When young girls see women in uniform, it shows them they can do this too,” Deputy Wilson said.

Cpl. Jaime Davis shared how those everyday interactions in the community can leave a lasting impression.

“When I see Girl Scouts selling cookies, I always donate to the troop,” she said. “The girls are always so happy to see a woman in uniform supporting their cause. It fills my heart with joy, and I hope I am making an impact on their lives.”

Whether in a patrol car, inside a correctional facility, or working as a school resource officer, their presence is helping shape the next generation’s understanding of leadership and service.

Advice For The Next Generation

Their message to women considering a career in public safety is simple: don’t let doubt define your path.

“There will always be opinions,” Deputy Wilson said. “But if you’re passionate about it, don’t let that stop you.”

“Come in with confidence,” Lt. Sherry Harrison added. “Be mentally and physically prepared, and stay consistent.”

A Community’s Gratitude

As Women’s History Month concludes, St. Mary’s County is not only celebrating the achievements of women throughout history, but also honoring those making history right here at home.

In every call answered, every life impacted, and every barrier broken, these women continue to prove that service knows no gender; only dedication.

And in doing so, they are leaving a legacy that will extend far beyond the month of March.

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