Sheriff speaks out on termination, indictment of Kentucky School Resource Officer

MARSHALL COUNTY, Ky., (KBSI) — Marshall County Sheriff Matt Hilbrecht addressed the recent termination and indictment of Steven Oakley, a school resource officer accused of sending improper text messages to a high school student.

Oakley was indicted on harassment charges in Marshall County Circuit Court. Hilbrecht said an internal investigation was launched on May 12 after a rumor surfaced, and Oakley was placed on administrative leave the next day.

After determining that criminal charges were possible, the Kentucky State Police were contacted to conduct an independent investigation. Oakley was terminated on May 21, before the investigation was completed.

Hilbrecht emphasized that child safety is his administration’s top priority and that he expects all officers to uphold high standards of conduct, especially when interacting with children.