David Harper was born and raised in McMinn County, Tennessee. He married Lydia Liner Harper in 2002, and together they have three children Jayson, Jaymie, and Jayden.

David graduated from the Cleveland State Police academy in 2000 shortly after graduating from McMinn County High School. He worked at Athens Furniture as well as with the Calhoun Tennessee Police Department until going to work for Bradley County Sheriff’s Office. While working for the Bradley County Sheriff’s Office, David has worked as a Corrections Officer, Patrol Officer, Detective, Fugitive Task Force Officer, and Field Training Officer. David is currently training new Deputies for the Patrol division.

During his career he has received many awards and specialty trainings including:

-Lifesaving Award

-Meritorious Service Award

-Sheriff's Award of Excellence

-SOCOMM (Sheriff's Office Commendation)