The former Madison County sheriff’s deputy who resigned in May over homophobic comments he made on social media following the suicide of a gay Huntsville teen has been hired as a police officer in Owens Cross Roads, the town police chief told local media outlets.

“Everybody deserves a second chance,” Owens Cross Roads Police Chief Jason Dobbins said of ex-Madison County Sheriff’s Deputy Jeff Graves, who stepped down amid an investigation into his Facebook comments on the death of Huntsville High School student Nigel Shelby, 15, by suicide. Shelby had been bullied over his sexual orientation.

Dobbins told WHNT that he believed Graves was remorseful over the remarks, which included calling the LGBTQ movement “fake” and that “society cannot and should not accept this behavior,” referring to homosexuality.

Graves was suspended by the sheriff’s office in April over his social media comments. An internal investigation “uncovered multiple violations of both county and sheriff’s office policies,” Madison County Sheriff Kevin Turner said at the time, although he did not elaborate on what those violations or the policies were.

Dobbins told WAAY that he does not believe Graves will exhibit bias toward anyone.

“He’s an officer here. We feel he will be a good addition to the department,” Dobbins said, adding that Graves’ first day on the job was Monday.

Here are warning signs to watch for if you fear someone is suicidal and resources that can help those thinking of harming themselves or who fear a loved one might harm themselves.

WARNING SIGNS

Threatening to hurt or kill oneself or talking about wanting to hurt or kill oneself.

Looking for ways to kill oneself by seeking access to firearms, available pills, or other means.

Talking or writing about death, dying, ''ending the pain'' or suicide.

Feeling hopeless.

Acting reckless or engaging in risky activities - seemingly without thinking.

Feeling trapped - like there's no way out.

Increasing alcohol or drug use.

Withdrawing from friends, family, social support and society.

Feeling anxious, agitated, or unable to sleep or sleeping all the time.

Experiencing significant mood changes.

Seeing no reason for living or having no sense of purpose in life.

Feeling rage or uncontrolled anger or seeking revenge.

HOW TO HELP

Ask the person directly if he or she is having suicidal thoughts, has a plan to do so, and has access to lethal means.

If you think the person might harm him- or herself, do not leave the person alone.

Take seriously all suicide threats and all past suicide attempts, even if he or she minimizes your concerns.

Be direct. Talk openly and matter-of-factly about suicide.

Be willing to listen and be non-judgmental. Don't debate whether suicide is right or wrong, or whether feelings are good or bad. Don't lecture on the value of life or whether suicide is viewed by some as a sinful, selfish or angry act. Respect that suicidal feelings are most likely related to ending emotional or psychological pain.

Get involved. Become available. Show interest and support. Take into account other trusted friends, family members or allies who can be a part of a supportive team.

Don't dare him or her to do it.

Don't act shocked. This may translate as criticism or judgment and weaken trust between you.

Don't be sworn to secrecy. Acknowledge that all suicidal risk is to be taken seriously and firmly and gently explain that you are seeking support.

Offer hope that alternatives are available but do not offer glib reassurance.

Take action. Remove means, such as guns or stockpiled pills.

Get help from persons or agencies specializing in crisis intervention and suicide prevention.

Resources in Alabama

Alabama Suicide Prevention and Resource Coalition

Crisis Center, Inc. (Birmingham)

Crisis Services of North Alabama (Huntsville)

Lifelines/Family Counseling Center of Mobile

Sources: The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and The Alabama Suicide Prevention and Resource Coalition