“This type of behavior will not be tolerated," said the sheriff. "Our deputies have worked hard to gain the trust and respect from the community. When one of them breaks the law they will be held accountable.”

A former Georgia deputy has been charged with sexual assault against a person in custody.According to the Cherokee County Sheriff's Office, Richard Gilleland, 51, was arrested Thursday on two counts of sexual assault against a person in custody, two counts of sexual battery and two counts of violation of oath of office.Authorities say the investigation began Friday after two inmates reported an incident. Gilleland, a five-year veteran of the office, was placed on leave during the investigation and resigned from the agency Tuesday. “This type of behavior will not be tolerated," said Sheriff Frank Reynolds. "Our deputies have worked hard to gain the trust and respect from the community. When one of them breaks the law they will be held accountable.”(Below: Jury acquits former corrections officer charged with sexual assault)

A former Georgia deputy has been charged with sexual assault against a person in custody.

According to the Cherokee County Sheriff's Office, Richard Gilleland, 51, was arrested Thursday on two counts of sexual assault against a person in custody, two counts of sexual battery and two counts of violation of oath of office.


Authorities say the investigation began Friday after two inmates reported an incident. Gilleland, a five-year veteran of the office, was placed on leave during the investigation and resigned from the agency Tuesday.

“This type of behavior will not be tolerated," said Sheriff Frank Reynolds. "Our deputies have worked hard to gain the trust and respect from the community. When one of them breaks the law they will be held accountable.”

(Below: Jury acquits former corrections officer charged with sexual assault)