Jackson County chief deputy’s conduct referred to full commission for formal hearing

The informal subcommittee voted to refer Roy Shepherd, a chief deputy with the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, to a formal commission hearing after receiving a written complaint from a general sessions judge that raised concerns about courtroom conduct and possible witness intimidation.

Jackson County presented a brief summary: Shepherd was asked repeatedly during a county general sessions matter whether he had a weapon or a cell phone in court and, the department said, he initially denied having either. The judge ordered him to exit the courtroom; the judge later wrote a letter saying Shepherd used his position improperly and that he had not indicated he was armed. The sheriff’s office stated the deputy was 10‑8 (on duty) and had been present to support his wife, who was a custodian of children in a juvenile matter.

Shepherd’s counsel, Dana Looper, told the subcommittee Shepherd had been on duty and had his handgun, badge and handcuffs visible, and said Shepherd left the courtroom when instructed. Looper argued the judge’s letter contained conclusory language and that Shepherd had not been given an opportunity to respond before termination. Commissioners questioned discrepancies between Shepherd’s account and the judge’s letter, including whether Shepherd raised his hand when the judge asked if anyone had weapons.

Commissioners debated whether the judge’s written concerns warranted more fact‑finding. The subcommittee approved a motion to move the matter to a formal hearing before the full commission; investigators were asked to seek preservation of any courthouse surveillance footage and coordinate with counsel on next steps.

The subcommittee set a formal hearing date for July and advised Shepherd’s counsel and investigators to exchange relevant materials.