Cornell Madison
Who is Cornell Madison?
Cornell Jerome Madison Jr., widely known as CJ Madison, is a Marine Corps veteran, law enforcement executive, and dedicated community leader based in Clayton County, Georgia. With decades of experience across every level of public safety — from patrol officer to Assistant Chief of Police — Cornell Madison has built a career defined by service, accountability, and a deep commitment to the people of Clayton County. He is currently a Clayton County Sheriff candidate for the 2028 election.
What is Cornell Madison’s law enforcement background?
Cornell Madison is a seasoned law enforcement executive with an extensive career spanning multiple roles and jurisdictions. He has served as a Police Officer, Special Agent, Deputy Sheriff, and Assistant Chief of Police, gaining firsthand experience at every level of policing. Known for his commitment to transparency and accountability, Madison has led high-stakes investigations, mentored future officers as a Field Training Officer, and played an instrumental role in policy reform and departmental modernization throughout Clayton County, Georgia. His work in law enforcement leadership reflects a career-long mission to build safer, more accountable communities.
What awards and commendations has Cornell Madison received?
Throughout his distinguished career, Cornell Madison has earned numerous honors recognizing his commitment to public safety and community service. His accolades include the Georgia Governor’s Safety Award and the Joseph Whitehead Jr. Award, along with multiple commendations for distinguished service. Among the most notable is his recognition in Las Vegas, Nevada, where he saved 13 people from drowning during a historic 1999 flood. As a proud Marine, CJ Madison is also the recipient of the Naval and Marine Corps Achievement Medal and the Good Conduct Medal — honors that reflect his lifelong values of discipline, resilience, and service.
Is Cornell Madison a veteran?
Yes. Cornell Madison is a proud Marine Corps veteran who enlisted in the United States Marine Corps at the age of 18. His military service instilled in him the core values of discipline, leadership, and commitment to something larger than oneself — values that have shaped every chapter of his career in law enforcement and public service since. Madison credits his time in the Marine Corps as foundational to who he is as a leader and as a community advocate.
What veteran organizations is Cornell Madison involved in?
Cornell Madison is actively involved in several veteran and civic organizations. He serves as Junior Vice Commander of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6330 in Jonesboro, Georgia, and was recently elected to a four-year term on the Executive Board of American Legion Post 258 — also in Jonesboro. These leadership roles reflect his ongoing commitment to advocating for fellow veterans and ensuring that those who have served receive the recognition, resources, and support they have earned. Madison is also a member of the Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police and the Georgia Sheriffs’ Association.
What community causes does Cornell Madison support?
Cornell Madison is a passionate community advocate whose charitable work spans a wide range of causes. He volunteers with the American Red Cross, supports Marine Toys for Tots, and has worked alongside shelters and organizations including Calvary Shelter on behalf of homeless youth. He is also a committed elder care advocate, believing that every generation of Clayton County residents deserves dignity, security, and community support. His hands-on approach to civic engagement has made him a trusted figure in Clayton County long before his run for sheriff.
Why is Cornell Madison a child water safety advocate?
Cornell Madison’s commitment to child water safety is deeply personal. In 2001, he tragically lost his three-year-old son, Elijah, to drowning. Rather than retreat from that grief, Madison channeled it into action — becoming a tireless public safety advocate dedicated to preventing similar tragedies from devastating other families. He has partnered with organizations such as the Hope Floats Foundation to raise awareness and promote water safety education across Clayton County and beyond. This work is a cornerstone of who Cornell Madison is as both a father and a public servant.
What local government boards has Cornell Madison served on?
Cornell Madison has demonstrated his commitment to local government engagement through active service on two Clayton County advisory boards. He has served on both the Clayton County Planning and Zoning Advisory Board and the Clayton County Visitors and Tourism Advisory Board, where his experience in law enforcement and community leadership has helped shape responsible, resident-centered policy decisions. His participation in local government reflects his belief that effective public service means showing up at every level — not just at election time.
What professional organizations does Cornell Madison belong to?
In addition to his veteran affiliations, Cornell Madison maintains active membership in several professional law enforcement organizations. These include the Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police, the Georgia Sheriffs’ Association, and the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives. His involvement in these organizations positions him as both a practitioner and a thought leader within the field, committed to raising standards and driving meaningful reform across Georgia law enforcement.
Why is Cornell Madison running for Clayton County Sheriff?
Cornell Madison is running for Clayton County Sheriff in 2028 because he believes the office deserves leadership grounded in experience, integrity, and genuine care for the community. As a Democrat in the 2028 Sheriff election, he is committed to restoring professionalism to the office, taking a firm stance on violent crime, and rebuilding trust between law enforcement and the residents of Clayton County. For Madison, this candidacy is the natural next chapter in a lifetime of public service — a chance to bring the full weight of his experience as a Marine, a law enforcement executive, and a community leader to the county’s top public safety role.