Grand Jury Declines To Indict Deputy
A Russell County Grand Jury late Tuesday afternoon returned a “NO True Bill” in cases presented by State Police against Russell County Sheriff’s Deputy Nick Bertram. A “NO True Bill” means the Grand Jury did not find “probable cause” for the charges.
Bertram was arrested by State Police in early January on charges of Burglary, Tampering With Physical Evidence, Possession of Marijuana and Drug Paraphernalia, and with Official Misconduct. As a result of the Grand Jury choosing not to indict Bertram, the charges against him were dismissed “without prejudice” by order of Circuit Judge Vernon Miniard, Jr.
Russell County Sheriff Lee Smith told WJRS NEWS he has reinstated Deputy Bertram who had been on investigative leave since his arrest on January 4th.
In a statement to WJRS NEWS, Deputy Bertram’s attorney, Derek Helm of Jamestown, referred to the arrest as “wrongful” and said, “Mr. Bertram would like to express his appreciation to the community for the support and prayers they have given him in this difficult time”.
