Clarence Gray Jr. announces his candidacy for Sheriff of St. John the Baptist Parish.

After serving the citizens of St. John the Baptist Parish for 30 years, Major Clarence Gray Jr. (Ret.) is considered one of the most well-respected leaders of St. John the Baptist Parish Sheriff’s Office.

During his tenure, Gray commanded and directed several high-profile units including the Uniform Patrol Division, the Felony Intercept Unit (Street Crimes Unit), the Special Operations Response Team and the St. John the Baptist Parish Housing Authority Special Operations Unit (Community Policing). Gray received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Education from William Carey College in Hattiesburg, Miss., in 1987.

After receiving his college degree, Gray returned home to teach biology at his high school alma mater, East St. John High School, where he graduated in 1982.

In 1989, Gray began his Law Enforcement career with SJSO under the administration of then Sheriff Lloyd B. Johnson.

Gray is a graduate of the FBI National Academy and LSU Basic Law Enforcement Academy, where he received his Peace Officer Standards and Training Certification. He obtained training certifications from the U.S. Marshals Task Force and Hostage Negotiations with the Kenner Police Department.

Gray has delivered several hours of training seminars on “House of Worship Safety and Security” to local clergy.

He is a lifelong resident of St. John. He has been married to wife Lisa Hayes Gray for 23 years. They have 3 children and 5 grandchildren.

He is a member of Rising Star Baptist Church, led by Pastor Donald August.

To learn more about Major Clarence Gray, Jr. (Ret.) and his campaign, visit his website, www.clarencegraryforsheriff.com or follow his social media pages on Facebook: @clarencegrayforsheriff & Instagram: @clarencegrayforsheriff.