Sheriff Jim Skinner: A Modern Day Texas Legend

There’s something undeniably iconic about a Texas sheriff. It’s a role steeped in history, conjuring images of rugged men on horseback, dusty trails, and standoffs in the blazing high noon sun. But beyond the romanticized notions lies a deeper truth: the pride of being a Texas sheriff stems from embodying a legacy of courage, justice, and resilience uniquely connected to the Lone Star State. In Texas, sheriffs are not just enforcers of the law—they are guardians of tradition, protectors of communities, and symbols of steadfast leadership in the face of adversity.

What makes the Texas sheriff so unique is its blend of historical significance and enduring relevance. From the earliest days of the Republic of Texas, sheriffs played a critical role in taming the wild frontier, enforcing laws in vast and untamed territories. They stood as pillars of order in an era when justice was often hard-fought and survival depended on grit. Over the decades, the Texas sheriff has evolved, adapting to modern challenges while maintaining an unshakable connection to the past. This duality—bridging the old and the new—is what captures the imagination and respect of people not just in Texas, but across the nation.

Few embody this tradition more fully than Sheriff Jim Skinner of Collin County. With a career spanning decades and experiences that have taken him from small-town police departments, the United States Air Force, and work as a prosecutor, Skinner’s path to becoming one of Texas’s most respected sheriffs is a testament to resilience and dedication.

Tragedy Leading to Tenacity

Sheriff Skinner’s journey into law enforcement began at just 19 years old when he took a job with the Harker Heights Police Department. The trajectory of his life changed forever during his first week on the job when his field training officer, Carl LeVin, was tragically killed in the line of duty. “It had such a dramatic impact on me,” Skinner recalls. “I felt like there had to be people brave enough to pursue those who do evil and seek justice for those who can’t.” That experience ignited a lifelong commitment to justice.

Skinner’s sense of duty extended beyond his work in local law enforcement. Coming from a military family—his father fought in World War II, Korea, and Vietnam—Skinner enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he served as a K-9 handler and later on an elite Emergency Services Team, akin to a SWAT unit. His time in the military sharpened his skills and deepened his commitment to protecting others.

After leaving the Air Force, Skinner returned to Texas, where he completed his education and continued his law enforcement career. In 2017, he was elected sheriff of Collin County, a position he describes as “the highest honor I’ve ever had in my life.” Now in his third term, Skinner’s leadership has transformed the Collin County Sheriff’s Office into a model of professionalism and innovation.

A Tradition of Leadership

At the heart of Skinner’s success is his philosophy of leadership. With nearly 700 employees under his command, he prioritizes clear communication and accountability. “In my organization, it’s very important that everyone understands the standard and what’s expected of them,” Skinner says. “They represent not only me but every single citizen in this county.”

Skinner’s approach to leadership is rooted in the principles of service and humility. He emphasizes the importance of putting citizens first, the organization second, and employees third. This structure ensures that every decision is made with the community’s best interests in mind.

One of Sheriff Skinner’s most profound influences is Harold Eavenson, the former sheriff of Rockwall County, Texas. Skinner speaks with great admiration about Eavenson’s fearless approach to upholding the law. “Harold Eavenson demonstrated that what’s right is right, and sometimes, politics be damned,” Skinner recalls. During a particularly challenging case involving corruption, Eavenson stood firm on his principles despite immense pressure from political figures. “He reminded me that our obligation is to the people we serve, not to other politicians. That kind of courage inspires me every day.”

Eavenson’s unwavering commitment to truth and justice reinforced Skinner’s belief that courage and integrity are non-negotiable traits for a Texas sheriff. “There’s no substitute for courage,” Skinner emphasizes. “To do this job, you have to be fearless and willing to stand up for what’s right, no matter the cost.”

A Heart for Transformation

Sheriff Skinner’s commitment to service extends to one of his most heartfelt initiatives: supporting veterans. As a veteran himself, Skinner deeply understands the challenges many face after leaving the military. Recognizing the unique needs of justice-involved veterans, Skinner launched an equine therapy program in Collin County to help them heal and rebuild their lives.

The program pairs incarcerated veterans with horses, providing both therapeutic benefits and practical skills. “When I left the military, being around horses helped heal my soul,” Skinner shares. “I wanted to bring that same opportunity to veterans in our community.” The initiative has already seen incredible successes, including veterans who have transformed their lives and found new purpose after completing the program.

Skinner’s dedication to veterans also includes working closely with the county’s Veterans Court, led by Judge John Roach. Together, they address the root causes of issues veterans face, such as PTSD and substance abuse, offering support and alternatives to incarceration. “These are people who served our country,” Skinner says. “We have an obligation to help them find their way back.”

While Sheriff Skinner respects the traditions of Texas law enforcement, he is also a forward-thinker who embraces technology and modern techniques. Under his leadership, the Collin County Sheriff’s Office has adopted tools like artificial intelligence, license plate readers, and a specialized child exploitation unit to combat crime effectively while respecting constitutional rights.

Skinner has also been a strong advocate for innovative programs within the county jail system. Recognizing that 90% of inmates eventually return to society, he has implemented initiatives toreduce recidivism. These include education, financial literacy, and interpersonal skills training. “What we are finding is, once they leave, we never see them again,” says Skinner. His work with these programs has blazed the trail for other correctional departments around the state and he has even found ways to finance the programs without any additional taxpayer expense.

Sheriff Skinner’s dedication extends far beyond Collin County. As a member of the executive committee for the National Sheriffs’ Association, Skinner is a national voice for law enforcement. Yet, he remains deeply rooted in the values and traditions of Texas. “I’m a Texas sheriff,” he proudly states. “People recognize that wherever I go in the United States. It’s a very special thing.”

That sense of pride is evident in everything he does, from the way he leads his team to the programs he champions. Whether he's intercepting cartel operations on Texas highways or ensuring that the Collin County Jail operates with professionalism and respect, Skinner embodies the courage and integrity that both define and honor the legacy of Texas sheriffs.

As Collin County continues to grow, so too do the challenges faced by its law enforcement. But Sheriff Skinner remains steadfast in his mission to protect and serve. His message to the citizens of Collin County is clear: “We’re doing everything possible to protect you and your families while working to build a community where everyone feels safe.”

Sheriff Jim Skinner’s story is a powerful reminder of what it means to serve with honor. In him, the tradition of the Texas sheriff not only endures but thrives, adapting to modern challenges while staying true to its roots. He uniquely blends tradition with innovation, courage with compassion, and justice with redemption. Under Jim Skinner the badge of the Collin County Sheriff is far more than a symbol of authority, it is a shield of sacrificial protection and a reminder that justice, when served with heart, will transform lives and communities.