CHARLOTTE, NC –  Mecklenburg County Sheriff Garry McFadden released a one minute apology video Thursday addressing accusations from former employees. Former employees claim McFadden has created a hostile work environment within the sheriff’s office.  They also say the sheriff has used racially-charged language. In the video, McFadden says “I want to apologize for that language. Held to a higher standard. That’s the office of the sheriff. But you must understand that I am human and I’m not perfect. And I will make mistakes. The interviews, the interviews will come because they have the luxury to talk openly and freely. But by law, I am not. Because I’m bound by law, and I can’t speak openly and freely.” WCCB Charlotte has confirmed that the sheriff’s office has terminated two employees. Human Resources director Rudyne A. Pearson and Business Manager Dr. Angelia Riggsbe were both terminated on November 13, 2024. In a news release, the sheriff’s office announced several leadership changes. Shanta Williams will serve as Interim Director of Human Resources while the agency conducts a search for a permanent HR Director. Williams, who has been with MCSO for almost 25 years, began as a Fiscal Analyst in Business Management and most recently served as an HR Consultant. Christopher Allen has been appointed as Interim Chief Deputy. Chief Deputy Allen joined MCSO from the Union County Sheriff’s Office earlier this year and has served as Chief of Staff. With more than 20 years of law enforcement experience, he brings a wealth of knowledge to this interim role. Shelby Jones is now MCSO’s Chief of Staff. Jones was the Sheriff’s first hire upon taking office in 2018, serving as his Executive Assistant since that time. With a deep understanding of the sheriff’s office and her commitment to its mission, Jones is ready to tackle her new duties. Andrey Melkonyan has been promoted to Director of Business Operations. Melkonyan, who was hired in 2008, has previously served as Accounting Supervisor. The sheriff has no qualms regarding Melkonyan’s ability to oversee MCSO’s financial processes. To see our previous reporting click here.