VALDOSTA —
VALDOSTA — After 27 years of serving Lowndes County as the Solicitor General, Richard Shelton has decided to retire.
In a telephone interview with the Times, Shelton said he was not interested in running again and wanted to avoid being a lame duck. Gov. Nathan Deal appointed Justo Cabral to serve as interim Solicitor General until the upcoming election.
With a lifetime of experience of prosecuting misdemeanor crimes in Lowndes County, Shelton has experienced numerous changes in the law that he believes have made a positive impact on victims and citizens.
When he first began in 1985, the blood alcohol level limit for a person driving under the influence was 0.14. Today, it is 0.08.
“This was reflective of a changing attitude of the state and community,” said Shelton.
With the combination of increased penalties, video evidence for convictions and educational initiatives about the dangers of driving while under the influence, there has been a reduction in state-wide D.U.I. arrests.
“It’s meant a lot to me to be a part of that,” said Shelton.
The second change in law enforcement he appreciated involved domestic violence disputes. During the 80’s, Georgia implemented a “no-drop” policy where victims could not drop domestic violence charges after they had been filed.
“I believe that’s had a positive impact on the issue of domestic violence and it’s rewarding to have been a part of that process,” he said. “I think there’s a heightened awareness among law enforcement that’s led to more cases, which is a healthy development.”
When asked if retirement would bring him more time with friends or hobbies, Shelton said he would return to his private practice as soon as Cabrol is sworn in.
Local News
Related Photos
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DAVID RODOCK | THE VALDOSTA DAILY TIMES Richard Shelton recently announced his decision to retire from serving as Lowndes County Solicitor General after holding the position for 27 years and one month.
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CONTRIBUTED PHOTO Former Lowndes County Solicitor Richard Shelton speaks with local attorney Sam Greneker at a retirement reception held for Shelton on Jan. 31 at the H. Arthur McLane Judicial Complex.
Discussion
Solicitor General Richard Shelton retires
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