Words by Hannah Manasco | Images by Al Blanton
After 39 years of service with the Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office, Sheriff Huey “Hoss” Mack has retired, stepping into a new role as the Executive Director of the Alabama Sheriffs Association.
The Alabama Sheriffs Association is a non-profit organization that supports all 67 Alabama sheriffs, coordinates educational training opportunities for law enforcement officers, and advocates on legislative and legal matters affecting the law enforcement community.
Mack’s law enforcement career began in 1982, spurred by a personal tragedy that shaped his life’s mission. His grandfather was tragically murdered during a robbery at a small Escambia country store, a profound loss that fueled his determination to seek justice and bring closure to other crime victims.
“My grandfather Hubert Mack was murdered the day after I graduated high school. Up to that time, I had toyed with several career paths. However, after that, I knew I was destined to go into law enforcement,” Mack says.
Following the conviction of his grandfather’s killer in 1984, Mack launched his career at just 17 years old, working as a crime scene investigator at the Mobile Regional Laboratory in Escambia.
In 1989, Mack transitioned to the Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office, where he continued his work as a crime scene investigator. His dedication and expertise led to his promotion to Chief Investigator of the Criminal Investigation Division in 2004.
A pivotal moment came in 2006 when the Baldwin County sheriff’s position became vacant. With years of experience under his belt, Mack seized the opportunity and ran for office. He was elected that year, beginning a tenure that would span five terms and leave a lasting impact on the county.
During his 17 years as sheriff, Mack took on leadership roles that extended beyond Baldwin County. He served on the National Sheriffs Association’s executive committee for eight years and was elected President of the Board of Directors for the Alabama Sheriffs Association in 2014.
By the spring of 2024, Mack decided not to seek a sixth term, choosing instead to explore new ways to serve. Shortly after, the Alabama Sheriffs Association’s Board of Directors offered him the position of Executive Director, a role he embraced with gratitude.
“I was very honored when they came to me,” Mack says. “I appreciate the opportunity that God and the Association have given me.”
In his new position, Mack is focused on enhancing the organization’s support for its members and the communities they serve. His goals include expanding training programs and fostering open communication across all levels of the Association.
As he reflects on the future, Mack remains committed to making a meaningful impact, saying, “I anticipate serving as long as I’m able to make a positive change.” WL
