Who is Who
Eric McCants is a Sergeant with the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office, leading the Crime Suppression Team. A motivational speaker, certified instructor, and life coach, he empowers law enforcement professionals and civilians through mindset development, leadership training, and community engagement. His mission centers on service, resilience, and personal transformation.
The Heart Behind the Badge
When Eric McCants steps into his uniform each morning, he doesn’t just represent law enforcement he embodies purpose. His life’s work is rooted in the belief that leadership is not about position but about impact. “Amen, it’s you versus you. Let’s get to work,” he often says, reminding those around him that growth begins within.
For Eric, the badge is more than authority it’s a symbol of accountability, compassion, and transformation. His path from a Campus Safety Officer to Sergeant of the Crime Suppression Team at the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office is a story of perseverance, integrity, and a deep commitment to service.
Foundation: Education, Drive, and Discipline
Eric’s foundation was built on education and an early fascination with justice. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration and later a Master of Science in Administration of Justice and Security from the University of Phoenix, pairing academic insight with field experience.
Education became his compass. It wasn’t just about earning degrees it was about equipping himself to make a difference. He complemented this knowledge with specialized certifications, including recognition as a General and Firearms Instructor through the State of Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training Council and the NRA-NMLRA Certified Pistol Instructor program.
Those who know Eric often remark that his drive to learn mirrors his desire to lead. As Lewis Blanchard, a senior law enforcement leader, once shared, “He continually strives to improve his knowledge and skills while encouraging others to do the same.” That commitment to self-improvement and to lifting others is what defines Eric’s leadership style today.
Ascent: Rising Through the Ranks
Eric’s career is a testament to the power of persistence. He began as a Campus Safety Officer at Paine College, where he learned that leadership starts with listening. His compassion for others and proactive mindset led him to serve as a School Resource Officer with the Richmond County Board of Education, shaping safe spaces where students could thrive.
By the time he joined the Burke County Sheriff’s Office, Eric had already proven his ability to balance empathy with enforcement. His rise was swift but earned moving from Patrol Sergeant to Lieutenant of the Special Operations Division, overseeing the K9 unit, traffic division, and crime suppression team.
His work ethic stood out even then. Blanchard recalled how Eric once paid out of pocket for his own advanced training when departmental budgets were tight, a decision that spoke volumes. “That’s extremely rare in law enforcement,” Blanchard noted. “He’s very focused and driven and will excel in any challenge he faces.”
Eric’s experience expanded further through his role as a Task Force Officer with the United States Marshals Service, where he collaborated with federal and state agencies on high-risk fugitive apprehensions. Working in such elite tactical settings refined his ability to remain calm under pressure and strengthened his belief that courage and compassion can coexist.
Impact: Leadership Through Service
Today, as Sergeant of the Crime Suppression Team at the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office, Eric leads a specialized unit tasked with proactive crime prevention and response in high-risk areas. His role demands precision, quick judgment, and trust qualities that have defined his entire career.
But Eric’s leadership extends beyond operations. He’s a motivational speaker, life coach, and mentor who uses his platform to uplift law enforcement officers, first responders, and community members alike. Through his “12 Day Mindset Program,” Eric helps individuals build resilience, confidence, and self-discipline.
As Andy Register observed, “He genuinely cares about the well-being and development of his program participants. His approach to encouragement and coaching makes a positive impact on morale and productivity.”
That same compassion carries into his public service. Eric believes that building community trust begins with genuine connection. Whether through mentorship, speaking engagements, or casual conversations, he strives to bridge the gap between law enforcement and the public it serves.
“If you’re looking for someone who encourages others and represents what law enforcement should be, Eric McCants is your guy,” said Scott Medlin, a Marine veteran and national speaker. Those words encapsulate not just Eric’s professional image but the essence of his personal mission.
The Human Side of Leadership
What sets Eric apart is his emotional intelligence. He understands that leadership requires vulnerability, humility, and presence. He doesn’t shy away from discussing the challenges of police work or the toll it can take. Instead, he channels those experiences into motivation for himself and for others.
“I never worked with Eric directly,” shared Detective Chad Bruckner, “but I see him daily influencing others with positivity and inspiration. His passion for serving others rings loud and true.”
Eric’s influence reaches far beyond his department. From giving guest lectures at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, where students were inspired by his honesty and insight, to mentoring younger officers who look up to his example, he’s built a reputation as both a protector and a teacher.
As Ryan Schwoebel, CFE, CFI, reflected after one of Eric’s university talks, “He helped my students understand complex issues like police reform and community relations with balance and clarity. His perspective was invaluable.”
Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Eric envisions a future where law enforcement evolves through empathy, adaptability, and education. His goal is to continue inspiring others inside and outside the uniform to believe in the power of mindset and purpose.
He continues to coach professionals and officers across the country, guiding them to discover what it means to serve with both strength and heart. His philosophy is simple but profound: “Excellence begins when you stop comparing yourself to others and start competing with who you were yesterday.”
Editorial Note
Eric McCants’s story is one of purpose, resilience, and leadership through service. His journey from college safety officer to specialized law enforcement leader is a reflection of grit and grace. Every role he’s held has carried a common thread: an unwavering commitment to others.
Through his work as a Sergeant, mentor, and motivator, Eric reminds us that leadership isn’t about commanding it’s about connecting. His legacy continues to grow with every person he encourages to become stronger, more mindful, and more compassionate.
