Sharon Cole

Sharon Cole is a lifelong public servant and veteran law enforcement leader, with 25 years of service in the Youngstown Police Department. Born and raised in Youngstown, Ohio, she built her career serving the community and has worked in every operational and administrative division of the department.

Cole previously served as a Detective Sergeant, assigned to the Internal Affairs Division, where she conducted internal departmental investigations and oversaw officer and supervisory accountability. She was directly involved in the department’s recruitment and hiring process.

Throughout her career, Cole has held numerous supervisory and leadership assignments, including Officer in Charge of the Patrol Division and Special Victims Unit, Patrol Road Supervisor, 911 Telecommunications Center Supervisor, Field Training Officer, and Detective Division Investigator. She has broad experience in patrol operations, investigative functions, crisis response, personnel supervision, and communications oversight.

A certified member of the Officer-Involved Shooting Team, Cole has investigated multiple officer-involved critical incidents. She has also played a key role in department-wide initiatives, including the implementation of the body-worn camera program and the transition to computer-generated media reporting. In addition, she served as the department’s Crime Stoppers liaison and fulfilled Public Information Officer responsibilities.

Prior to serving with the Police Department, Cole gained valuable experience with the Mahoning County Prosecutor’s Office and the City of Youngstown Law Department, where she developed a strong foundation in municipal law, departmental budgeting, and legislative processes.

Cole is a graduate of East High School in Youngstown and holds an Associate of Applied Science in Criminal Justice degree. She has completed extensive supervisory, investigative, and leadership training. Her career has been recognized with multiple departmental commendations and a Lifesaving Award.

She is married to Captain Jeff Cole of the Warren City Police Department and has three children.