About Us

The Greater Cleveland Chapter of the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE) stands as a community of leaders committed to service, accountability, and lasting impact across Northeast Ohio.
 
Since 1976, NOBLE has served as a professional organization dedicated to developing African American leaders within law enforcement, advancing them through the ranks and into executive leadership roles, including Chief Executive Officers. Through its National Conference, advanced leadership training, and mentorship from some of the most respected law enforcement leaders in the country, NOBLE continues to shape the profession’s future.
 
The Greater Cleveland Chapter carries this legacy forward at the local level, bringing together leaders who are committed to strengthening public safety and building trust within the communities they serve. Guided by our faith and a deep admiration for justice, our work is grounded in both principle and purpose, and shaped by our 501(c)(3) nonprofit responsibility and adherence to local and national constitutions and bylaws.

Victor McDowell, Jr., M.A., SHRM-CP, CLEE     

President           

Greater Cleveland Chapter of NOBLE 

See Full Bio

Message from the President
Email: President@noblecle.org

As President of the Greater Cleveland Chapter of the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE), I am honored to welcome you to our website.

Through advocacy, mentorship, and professional development, we provide our members with the support and resources they need to excel in their careers and serve their communities with integrity and excellence.

We invite you to explore our website, engage with our initiatives, and partner with us in fostering humility in policing while promoting fairness and justice for all.

I extend my deepest gratitude to our Executive Board for their unwavering commitment, our volunteers for their dedication, and our partners, Cuyahoga County Police Chiefs Association, Ohio Association of Chiefs of Police—including the CL3-Team Alliance—for their efforts in fostering critical conversations between law enforcement and youth.  

Our Vision for 2025 and Beyond

We are committed to four key priorities that drive our impact:

We nurture the next generation of law enforcement leaders through mentorship, professional development, and leadership training. By equipping our members with essential skills, we ensure they are ready to excel in their careers and contribute to systemic improvements in public safety.

A strong and effective organization benefits from diverse perspectives. We actively recruit law enforcement professionals who share our commitment to fairness, fostering inclusive representation, and ensuring that our chapter reflects the communities we serve.

Empowering young people is essential to building safer communities. Through outreach programs, educational initiatives, and strategic partnerships, we introduce youth to careers in law enforcement, develop their leadership potential, and foster positive relationships between officers and the community.

Public safety depends on collaboration and mutual respect. We engage with community leaders, organizations, and residents to implement effective policing strategies, promote meaningful dialogue, and build trust between law enforcement and the people we serve.

Executive Board Members Site is Under Construction!
Shawn T. Payne
Chapter First Vice President
Lieutenant Shawn T. Payne is a seasoned law enforcement and security operations leader with more than twenty years of experience in protective services, risk management, and organizational leadership. He currently oversees law enforcement operations at the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland, managing teams, training, compliance, and performance in a high-security environment. Lieutenant Payne is recognized for decisive leadership and operational expertise. He holds a Master of Interdisciplinary Studies in Criminal Justice Administration from Georgia State University and a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. He is currently pursuing a Doctor of Criminal Justice in Leadership from Liberty University. Since 2013, he has been an active member of NOBLE and now serves as First Vice President of the Greater Cleveland Chapter.
Craig Ali
Chapter Second Vice President
Deputy Sheriff Craig Ali serves with the Lorain County Sheriff’s Office and brings more than twenty-five years of law enforcement, corrections, and justice system leadership experience. He has contributed to specialized teams including the Crisis Intervention Team and Opioid Overdose Response Team, and collaborated with the DEA and ICAC, while serving as a supervisor and field training officer. Deputy Sheriff Ali also has over fifteen years in higher education leadership as Assistant Dean, Program Director, and Professor, overseeing Title IX and Clery Act compliance. He holds a Master of Science in Criminal Justice from the University of Cincinnati and a Bachelor of Arts in Criminology from Capital University and is a certified police academy instructor. An Associate Member of NOBLE since 2024, he serves as Second Vice President and honorably served in the United States Marine Corps Reserve from 1992 to 1998
Reginald Lanton
Chapter Recording Secretary
Sergeant Reginald Lanton serves with the Cleveland Division of Police and brings nineteen years of progressive experience in law enforcement, including roles as detective, police academy instructor, and Assistant Public Information Officer. He is currently assigned as an Administrative Sergeant in the Department of Public Safety. Sergeant Lanton holds a bachelor’s degree in public safety management from Cleveland State University and a master’s degree in human resources management. An Associate Member of NOBLE since 2024, he serves as Recording Secretary for the Greater Cleveland Chapter, supporting organizational leadership and operational excellence.
LaKisha Smith
Chapter Corresponding Secretary
Patrol Officer LaKisha Smith has served nearly eighteen years with the Cleveland Division of Police and is currently assigned to the 5th District Missing Persons Division as Training Coordinator. She is recognized for her leadership, professionalism, and commitment to advancing public safety initiatives. A lifelong learner, she earned her Bachelor's degree in 2021 and Master’s degree in 2025 from Southern New Hampshire University. An Associate Member of NOBLE since 2014, Patrol Officer Smith currently serves as Corresponding Secretary for the Greater Cleveland Chapter, demonstrating dedication to service, community impact, and organizational leadership.
Shanetta Harris
Chapter Treasurer
Shanetta Harris is an experienced public-sector finance professional with over a decade of experience in budget administration, financial oversight, and regulatory compliance. She currently serves as a Budget Administrator at the Cuyahoga Metropolitan Housing Authority, where she supports complex, multi-million-dollar operating and capital budgets while advancing fiscal transparency, cost controls, and operational efficiency. Recognized for her financial acumen and leadership, Harris was recruited by the Chapter President to serve on the NOBLE Executive Board as Chapter Treasurer and Supporting Member. In this role, she’ll provide fiduciary oversight and support sound financial governance to ensure organizational resources are managed responsibly and transparently. Her academic foundation is grounded in finance and economics, and she is currently advancing her studies in public administration. Known for her attention to detail and collaborative leadership style, Harris views the Treasurer role as a stewardship responsibility focused on sustainability, accountability, and strengthening trust while advancing the organization’s mission.
Yvette LaPrade
Chapter Financial Secretary
Yvette LaPrade is a Finance Specialist for the City of Maple Heights, Ohio, with extensive experience in municipal operations, payroll, and financial management. She is recognized for her precision, transparency, and commitment to public service in supporting the city’s financial health and the stability of its employees. Recruited by the NOBLE President and recommended by city and board leaders, Yvette serves as Financial Secretary and Supporting Member for the Greater Cleveland Chapter. A lifelong learner, Yvette continually expands her knowledge to stay current with evolving industry standards. A dedicated professional and community servant, she remains committed to leadership, service, her pastors, and advancing her God-given purpose
Shonisha Boley
Chapter Sergeant-at-Arms
Shonisha Boley is a criminal justice professional with over eleven years of experience in federal and state law enforcement. She currently serves as a State Parole Officer, recognized for her balanced leadership, investigative expertise, and unwavering integrity. Holding a master’s degree in criminal Behavior from Tiffin University and specialized training in Crisis Intervention, gang recognition, and chemical dependency counseling, Boley is an Associate Member of NOBLE since 2013 and serving as Chapter Sergeant-at-Arms, providing strategic leadership, oversight and support to the chapter.
Pastor Michael Murphy, Sr.
Chapter Chaplain
Pastor Michael Murphy, Sr. is the Senior Pastor of Prevail Church in Akron, Ohio, with over forty-four years of ministry experience. He has served in multiple leadership roles, including mentoring pastors, providing marriage and grief support, and serving as an intern chaplain with One Accord Bible College and the Akron Police Department, where he was the first African American chaplain. In 2023, Pastor Murphy received the Olive Branch Award at the NOBLE National Conference. He currently serves as Chapter Chaplain for the Greater Cleveland Chapter, providing spiritual guidance and support to law enforcement members, staff, and their families.

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