Georgia Sheriff has harsh words about deputy arrested for child molestation

November 25, 2019
1 min read
Georgia Sheriff has harsh words about deputy arrested for child molestation
Steve Sorrells

PAULDING COUNTY — Paulding County Sheriff Gary Gulledge didn’t mince words when a Paulding County deputy was arrested on charges of child molestation Monday.

In a statement released Monday afternoon, Gulledge said he was “disgusted” and that the incident had tarnished law enforcement.

The GBI arrested Paulding County Sheriff’s Deputy Steve Sorrells for two counts of Child Molestation and Violation of Oath of Office. 

The investigation was initiated on Nov. 14 by the GBI at the request of the Paulding County Sheriff’s Office after an allegation of inappropriate sexual contact with a minor was made to the sheriff’s office. 

Sorrells was employed as a Detective at the sheriff’s office and was assigned to the juvenile investigation’s division. Sorrells was immediately placed on administrative leave at the onset of the investigation and was terminated from employment upon his arrest. Sorrells was taken into custody and booked at the Paulding County jail without incident.

“I am disgusted that one of our own has been arrested and charged with child molestation. This type of behavior will not be condoned in our office nor in any law enforcement agency in the county. Our focus is on the victims in this case; we want to make sure they get the justice and compassion they deserve.” Gulledge said. “This incident has tarnished the badge that we all wear so proudly. We will do everything in our power to assist the GBI during this investigation.”

Since he was an employee of the Paulding County Sheriff’s Office prior to his arrest, Sorrells was transferred to a neighboring agency where he is being held with no bond.

This is an active and ongoing investigation that is being conducted by the GBI. If you or someone you know has any information about this case or any others that Sorrells may be involved in, you are encouraged to call the GBI Region 1 Field Office at (706) 624-1424.

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