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GBI Announces Graduation of Hawkinsville Native Shannon Harrell from the GBI’s Special Agent Academy
 
Special Agent Shannon HarrellPerry, GA (August 29, 2024) – The Georgia Bureau of Investigation recently graduated Class 53 of the GBI Special Agent Academy. Among the graduates was Special Agent Shannon Harrell who is assigned to the GBI’s regional investigative office in Perry, GA.

Originally from Hawkinsville, GA, SA Harrell graduated from Hawkinsville High School in 2007 and went on to earn her bachelor’s degree from Middle Georgia State University. Before beginning her career at the GBI, SA Harrell spent time as a deputy in Dodge County and she currently serves as both an EMT and a volunteer firefighter in her local community.

“It’s just a calling that I enjoy and it fulfills my life,” said SA Harrell when asked why she wants to become a GBI special agent. “I always wanted to be able to actually investigate and find answers for people when they call us, but while working patrol it’s hard to do any of that extra work when you have other calls to answer. I wanted to be the one to help find the answers and give families closure. I always felt the call to serve, and this is my way of doing so.”

SA Harrell is the first in her family to pursue a career in law enforcement, but her drive to serve and protect is reflected in her family, many of whom have served in the military. She is motivated by her two children and aims to be a good role model that they can look up to.

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is comprised of four divisions: the Georgia Crime Information Center, the Crime Laboratory, the Investigative Division, and the Legal Division. The GBI has over 900 employees and a current budget of $147,482,036.