He was hired by Camden County Sheriff’s Office in November 2015 and served as a Patrol Deputy and Patrol Sergeant until September 2021 when he was then promoted to Lieutenant and transferred to the newly created Professional Standards Division.

During his Law Enforcement career, he pursued his academic and professional education obtaining his Associates of Science Degree in Criminal Justice from Georgia Military College in December 1992, Bachelors of Science Degree in Criminal Justice from Armstrong State College in December 1995, and his Masters Degree of Public Administration from Georgia Southern University in December 2000. Between 1995 and 1998, he obtained his Intermediate Peace Officer, Advanced Police Officer, Supervisory and Managerial Certification from the Georgia Public Safety Training Center. In addition, he graduated from the FBI National Academy in September 1999 with major coursework in Police Management and Administration.

Lieutenant Kelly’s current goals are to serve the Citizens of Camden County with Integrity and Professionalism and use his skill sets and knowledge learned over his lifetime to improve the Sheriff Office Operations, Delivery of Services, and Community Interactions.

Jim is married to his best friend, Beth, since 1984. They both enjoy working on their small farm and love taking vacations in the Smokey Mountains where Jim spends most his time trout fishing in the streams, but often grandchildren take priority. Jim Kelly attends Waverly United Methodist Church and is currently serving as the Treasurer and Church Council Chairperson.