A former Chesterfield County Detention Center officer faces charges after misusing his taser during a February 28, 2026, inmate dispute. Shyheim Ledbetter, sworn in just weeks earlier on January 20, argued while distributing trays, pointed his taser at inmates, then re-entered the pod and fired it—striking inmates and fellow officers, including a female officer indirectly affected.
Incident Details
The escalation injured four people via taser wires and effects amid de-escalation efforts. Ledbetter complied initially but returned agitated, prompting charges of four counts of third-degree assault and battery plus misconduct in office.
Aftermath
He self-surrendered March 6 and was terminated immediately. Sheriff’s Office stresses professionalism and safety for staff/inmates.














