Shelby County deputy signs toward voluntary suspension; matter reset to July pending agreed order

Shelby County officials presented an investigation into Deputy Sheldon Smith stemming from a June 2024 traffic stop and subsequent events that included questions about the handling of an apparently intoxicated female, the taking of her vehicle to a hotel by deputies, and discrepancies in reports and body‑worn camera footage.

Carla Allen, director of training for the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, summarized the office’s investigation: deputies responded to a call about an intoxicated driver, determined the person did not need medical transport but left the driver in the care of the deputies, and later took the driver to a hotel. Video showed deputies taking the intoxicated person into a hotel room and later leaving; the victim later alleged the off‑duty deputy engaged in sexual contact and the other deputy was present in the room for about an hour. The victim initially declined prosecution; the District Attorney’s office has since indicated renewed interest as publicity around the case has grown.

Smith, who attended the subcommittee, was asked whether he would agree to a voluntary suspension of his POST certification while criminal matters are resolved. Counsel and the subcommittee discussed the advantages of an agreed suspension: it would take effect more quickly than a formal decertification hearing and could be lifted if the DA’s investigation clears him or the parties agree.

The subcommittee approved a motion to reset the matter to July to allow the parties an opportunity to finalize an agreed order of suspension. Commissioners also noted the suspension would prevent Smith from working in law enforcement in Tennessee while it remains in effect.