Sgt. Elbert Shelley of the Gordon County Sheriff’s Office (GCSO) was honored with the Sheriff’s Distinguished Service Cross during a retirement ceremony held on Friday, June 27, 2025.
Shelley retires after 16 years of dedicated service with the GCSO, including 13 years as a School Resource Officer. Prior to his law enforcement career, Shelley enjoyed an acclaimed tenure in the National Football League, where he played as a safety for the Atlanta Falcons and earned four Pro Bowl selections.
The Distinguished Service Cross was awarded in recognition of Shelley’s exceptional contributions to public safety. According to the Sheriff’s Office, Shelley demonstrated valor and fidelity in numerous hazardous situations, actively participated in the arrest and prosecution of criminal offenders, and showed unwavering compassion to victims, the injured, and those in need. His long-standing commitment to protecting and mentoring students as a School Resource Officer from 2012 to 2025 was especially noted.
