James Shores began his law enforcement career in 1994 after serving in the US Marine Corps from 1989 to 1993. He is a 26-year veteran law enforcement officer and is currently a Patrol Supervisor, with the rank of Corporal, with the Thomasville Police Department. He is married to Michelle Shores and they have 4 children and 2 grandchildren. James holds an Associate Degree in Criminal Justice Technology from Stanly Community College.

James joined the Triad FOP Lodge 79 in 2004 and has served in various positions to include Sergeant-at-Arms, Second Vice President, and Vice President. In 2013, James was a Founding/Charter member of the Davidson County FOP Lodge 97, where he is currently the Lodge President. James was elected as the State 2nd Vice President in 2017 due to that office becoming open midterm. He was just recently re-elected in 2020 to the office of State 2nd Vice President.