Jerrita Patterson Has Joined Shelby County Sheriff's Office
The veteran journalist left WREG News Channel 3 to serve as a public information officer for the department.
Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in People
Longtime Memphis journalist Jerrita Patterson has ended her seven-year tenure at WREG News Channel 3. She has accepted a new role as a public information officer for the Shelby County Sheriff's Office.
Why it matters
Sheriff Anthony Buckner appointed Patterson to this position as part of an effort to bolster consistent and transparent communication with the community. Her move brings extensive media experience to the department's public relations operations.
Jerrita Patterson brings 22 years of total journalism experience to her new role, including two Emmy Awards earned during her career. Her recent departure from WREG follows a seven-year tenure at the station.
The players
Jerrita Patterson
She is a veteran journalist with 22 years of experience who previously worked at WREG News Channel 3 and FOX13 in Memphis.
Anthony Buckner
He is the current Sheriff of Shelby County who oversees the department's public communication strategy.
The details
Patterson, who first arrived in the Memphis market in 2015 to join FOX13, will now transition from broadcast reporting to public information duties. The Shelby County Sheriff's Office announced the hire through a press release highlighting a commitment to improving open dialogue with the public.
Timeline
2015: Patterson began working in Memphis journalism.
October 6, 2026: The Shelby County Sheriff's Office confirmed the hiring.
Market Landscape
This move follows a growing industry trend of law enforcement agencies recruiting experienced media professionals to modernize and manage public messaging. It reflects a shift where local agencies are prioritizing veteran communication expertise to handle public-facing operations.
Residents can expect a shift in how the Shelby County Sheriff's Office disseminates information regarding local safety and department activities. The appointment aims to improve the consistency and clarity of communications provided to the public.
The takeaway
The move highlights the increasing value placed on journalistic expertise within public-sector communications. Residents may notice more transparent and proactive engagement from the sheriff's office as the department updates its outreach strategies.
Further reading
For more information on career shifts in the area, visit the Memphis People section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Commercial Appeal.
