It has been nearly three decades since The Douglas County Sheriff's Office swore in an African-American woman as deputy, but on Monday that all changed as Teshaunta Tiller was sworn in by the sheriff.
Teshaunta tells 6 News a friend inspired her to go into law enforcement. "I had a friend of mine go through the police academy last year and to be honest I saw the lack of minority women and I was like, I think I want to do this."
Deputy Tiller knew she would be a rare hire, as it has been more than 25 years since a woman of color has been sworn in, but this was always something she wanted to do. "I kind of got distracted and then got married and had kids so it kind of went on the back burner for awhile."
Chief Deputy Tom Wheeler says it's not for lack of desire that it's been so long since an African-American female has joined the staff. "Unfortunately we don't see a lot of interest from African-American females in law enforcement." Sheriff Tim Dunning says the occasion marks a first for him in his 24 years of experience.
Deputy Tiller's husband Malcolm got to pin the badge on his wife in what was a proud moment for his family. "It was actually one of those surreal moments, 'am I really doing this at this moment?' It was was actually great. I'm trying to hold back the tears."
Deputy Tiller says she feels no extra pressure but she realizes she is now a role model and being a role model starts at home. "I have a daughter, so if she wanted to go into this profession you know she would say 'my mom did it.' For anybody that might have thought it was impossible, not so much anymore because it has been done. It can be done."
(Photo courtesy of 6 News)