Probation officer accused of sexual battery is relieved of duty

A Coweta County probation officer is facing charges related to his alleged behavior with the girlfriend of a former probationer, officials said. 

Derrick Anthony Sheppard, 54, was arrested Friday on charges of sexual battery and violation of oath.

The 10-year veteran with Coweta County’s Department of Community Supervision was relieved of his duties, Chief Deputy James Yarbrough said.

Sheppard is accused of making repeat visits to a woman’s house even after his probationer was sent back to jail in June, according to an arrest warrant.

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On several occasions, Sheppard allegedly arrived at the woman’s residence in full uniform, with his state-issued gun and stun gun. During at least five of those visits, Sheppard is accused of kissing and touching the woman without her consent, the warrant states.

On Oct. 11, Sheppard allegedly exposed himself to the woman and asked to have sex with her. When she declined, he allegedly told her he would return in five days.

When Sheppard returned to the residence Oct. 16, deputies were waiting for him. The warrant states that Sheppard admitted to kissing the woman and asking for naked photos of her, but he denied exposing himself.

He was released from jail on a $6,500 bond, deputies said.

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