Merced County Sheriff appoints new spokesman

MERCED -- Merced County Sheriff's deputy Delray Shelton took over the role of public affairs officer this week at the Sheriff's Department. Shelton, 28, takes over the position from deputy Tom MacKenzie, who was assigned to the role for five years.

Sheriff Mark Pazin commended MacKenzie this week for a job well done. "Tom brought not only his considerable experience to the public affairs officer position, but a credibility and approachability that served this agency and our community well," Pazin said.

Shelton began his career with the Sheriff's Department in 2005. Since then, he's worked in the corrections and operations divisions. He also served on the STAR Team and worked as a K9 handler.

A native of Merced, Shelton graduated from Golden Valley High and holds a bachelor's degree in criminal justice management.