barbara farmer tolbert

Retired Special Victims unit Detective

Barbara Farmer-Tolbert is a trailblazer in law enforcement, public safety, and women’s advocacy. Her many awards and accomplishments include:

She is a decorated, retired Special Victims Unit Detective, the first African American woman to graduate with the highest GPA from the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, and the first woman to be awarded “Top Cop” in Shelby County, Life Saving Officer and Officer of the Year.

Barbara holds numerous commendations and is a much sought after lecturer on Public Safety.

Her dedication extends beyond her professional duties as she has maintained close contact with victims to inspire them to become victorious.

Currently, she serves as the Pastor of Foreign Missions at New Hope Baptist Church. Barbara travels both nationally and internationally, advocating for victims of domestic and sexual abuse and persons with intellectual or developmental disabilities. 

Additionally, she teaches hands-on public safety and situational awareness techniques for women and children.

She has been married to Anthony Tolbert for 25 years and is the mother of one son and one daughter.

Barbara Farmer-Tolbert truly embodies service to others.