Knox County Sheriff Brent Gibson hired attorney Oscar Butler to serve as special counsel to the department.
Butler will serve as a deputy law director for Knox County, where he will be assigned to KCSO, according to an announcement on social media.
Oscar attended Maryville College and Lincoln Memorial University's Duncan School of Law. He then worked as an assistant district attorney in Knox County from 2019 to 2023, according to his LinkedIn page.
Butler next worked as a defense attorney at the law firm Barnes and Fersten before starting his own practice in early 2026.
"Oscar’s diverse legal background, deep understanding of Knox County’s criminal justice system, and commitment to serving his community make him a great resource for the Knox County Sheriff’s
Office," a Sept. 29 statement from the Knox County Sheriff's Office said.
The chief counsel role was most recently held by former KCSO Chief Mike Ruble.
"We look forward to the knowledge, experience and perspective he will bring as we continue serving the citizens of Knox County with professionalism and integrity," the statement said.
Anthony Nicotera covers public safety for Knox News. Email: anthony.nicotera@knoxnews.com.
This article originally appeared on Knoxville News Sentinel: Knox County Sheriff's Office announces new chief counsel
