Former deputy Chris Smith opens bakery after leaving law enforcement

In November 2023, Chris Smith, a 56-year-old Navy veteran and former deputy with the Leon County Sheriff's Office, opened Ground Ops Roastery + Bakehouse in Tallahassee, Florida. Before embarking on his culinary journey, Smith served as a deputy, where he worked on the SWAT team and with the bomb squad. His decision to open the bakery stemmed from a desire to provide a service to the community he had once protected. Smith's culinary passion began to blossom as he experimented with food and shared his creations with others. Shannon Smith, Chris's wife, revealed that one of her husband's proudest moments was when he shared an improvised dish called Hello Cake with her during their first meeting in 2021. His culinary skills and the creation of this dish helped forge their bond, and it eventually became a popular item on the bakery's menu. Chris's journey into the food industry was not without its challenges, as balancing his past career in law enforcement with his new business required significant sacrifice and commitment. While Chris Smith's army background provided him with the skills and discipline necessary for both law enforcement and running a business, he acknowledged that managing a bakery presented new obstacles. The early morning baking routines contrasted sharply with the adrenaline of his previous law enforcement duties, leading him to remark that the baking process was a different kind of difficulty. However, he remained connected to his law enforcement roots, reminiscing about his colleagues and the camaraderie they shared. Ultimately, the bakery allowed him to channel his passion for food and offer a cozy community gathering space. Although he faced numerous hurdles, Chris Smith's determination to succeed in the culinary world reflected his enduring connection to the community. The transition from law enforcement to becoming a local baker symbolized a significant shift in his life. At Ground Ops Roastery + Bakehouse, customers could enjoy not just delicious food, but the warmth of a welcoming environment forged from years of serving the public. The bakery was more than just a business for Smith; it was a culmination of his journey, a place where he could share his love for food, and a way to continue providing a service to his community.