In a decisive victory on October 11, 2025, Michelle Woodfork was elected as the new Sheriff of Orleans Parish, defeating incumbent Susan Hutson with 53% of the vote, enough to win outright and avoid a runoff. Her election marks a pivotal moment for law enforcement in New Orleans, as she becomes the first woman to serve as both police chief and sheriff in the city’s history.
A Veteran Law Enforcement Leader
Woodfork brings over three decades of experience to the role. She began her career in 1991 as a patrol officer in the New Orleans Police Department and rose through the ranks to become the city’s first female police superintendent. Under her leadership, the city saw a 25% drop in violent crime, a 45% decrease in carjackings, and a tripling of officer recruitment.
After retiring in 2023, she joined District Attorney Jason Williams’ office as Director of Forensic & Intelligence Investigations. Her deep understanding of both policing and criminal justice positioned her as a strong candidate to lead the troubled Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office.
Campaign Themes and Vision
Woodfork’s campaign focused on restoring public confidence, increasing transparency, and reforming jail operations. She pledged to improve conditions at the Orleans Justice Center, which has struggled under a federal consent decree due to issues like violence, poor medical care, and unsafe living conditions.
Her platform emphasized:
• Immediate accountability and deputy recruitment
• Mental health and substance abuse programs
• Education and job training for inmates
• Safe and secure jail operations through technology investments
Woodfork also committed to visiting other jails to learn best practices and build a team that reflects her reform-minded approach.
A Tumultuous Transition
Woodfork’s election follows a turbulent term for outgoing Sheriff Susan Hutson, who faced criticism over a jailbreak, a mistaken inmate release, and a ransomware attack in 2025. Hutson, the first Black woman elected sheriff in Louisiana, had campaigned on reform but struggled to implement lasting change amid operational challenges and budget disputes.
Despite the loss, Hutson pledged a smooth transition, stating, “I’m not going to do what was done to me, which was not have a transition”.
Looking Ahead
Woodfork celebrated her win at Sweet Lorraine’s Jazz Club, surrounded by supporters and city officials. She promised to be a sheriff “the people can not only be proud of but that they can count on”. Her election signals a new chapter for the Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office—one focused on safety, rehabilitation, and community trust.