Marshall County Sheriff addresses indictment of school resource officer

Marshall County Sheriff Matt Hilbrecht addressed the recent termination and indictment of Steven Oakley, a Marshall County school resource officer.

Oakley was recently indicted in Marshall County Circuit Court with harassment following allegations of sending improper text messages to a high school student. 

In a video posted to Facebook Thursday morning, Sheriff Hilbrecht addressed the situation and explained the time line of the investigation.

Hilbrecht said he was previously unable to make a statement during the due process phase according to Kentucky law.   

Hilbrecht said his office launched an internal investigation on May 12, not in response to a formal complaint but based solely on a rumor that was brought to his attention.

"This started due to a rumor," said Hilbrecht. "I made the decision to look into that because I won't wait when it comes to taking action when it comes to the safety of our children."

Hilbrecht said Oakley was then placed on administrative leave on May 13 while they conducted the investigation. He then said it became apparent on May 14 that there could be criminal charges in the case and therefore they contacted the Kentucky State Police to began an outside, independent investigation. 

Hilbrecht said Oakley was terminated before the end of the KSP investigation. 

"Let me be clear about something, I didn't wait for their investigation before taking action," Hilbrecht said. "When the evidence came to light that there in fact inappropriate communication with Deputy Oakley and a student, I terminated his employment."

Oakley's termination happened on May 21 and Hilbrecht made clear that Oakley was not on paid leave since that time.

Hilbrecht also addressed allegations and rumors that have been on social media that there were photos or more explicit evidence. Hilbrecht said those things were never found in the investigation and had they been it would have resulted in more serious charges. 

He added that if anyone feels they have more evidence or any concerns about that they should report it to KSP immediately. 

Hilbrecht said child safety is the number one priority of his administration.

"I worked for two decades alongside Deputy Oakley, but I didn't hesitate to take action the moment this came to light," Hilbrecht said. "I expect everyone who wears this uniform to hold a high standard of conduct, especially when it comes to our children."

To see the full video click here.