Former Tulsa, Okla., police officer acquitted in the killing of Terence Crutcher was confirmed for a new job on Wednesday as a reserve deputy with Rogers County (Okla.) Sheriff’s Office.
The county usually doesn’t hold press conferences for swearing-in ceremonies, but due to Shelby’s high profile and local Sheriff Scott Walton’s support of her during her trial, she was sworn in by RCSO during a live press conference Thursday morning.
Walton posted at least three letters on the RCSO Facebook page supporting Shelby and defending her against critics, according to The Root.
“As members of the Rogers County Sheriff’s office, we are especially pleased to have former Tulsa Police Officer Betty Jo Shelby joining our Reserve Deputy Program,” read a photo caption posted on the RCSO Facebook page Thursday. “Betty Shelby represent years of experience in law enforcement. She has always dedicated her life to providing assistance to other individuals, and by agreeing to volunteer her time, energy, and resources to the Rogers County community, she is simply demonstrating the continued passion that she has for her chosen profession.”
Shelby was found not guilty on May 17 for the Sept. 16 shooting of Crutcher, but she resigned from her department effective August 1 after being reassigned to a desk job. She, reportedly, desired to do police work in the field rather than behind a desk.
