When officers from throughout the southeast gather in March for a memorial ride to honor Officer Michael Smith of the Henry County (GA) Police Department—who was killed in the line of duty in December 2018—they will be joined by one of the biggest names in sports.
Standing at more than seven feet tall, NBA legend—and sworn law enforcement officer—Shaquille O'Neal will participate in the event organized by the Disciples of Antioch Motorcycle Ministry.
According to NBC News, the president of that motorcycle club said, "We're very excited and we know his presence will bring out a lot of bikers."
O'Neal has been a deputy marshal in Louisiana, a reserve police officer in Florida, and he was sworn in as a sheriff's deputy in Clayton County, GA, last year.
The Hall-of-Famer and longtime commentator for the NBA on TNT in nearby Atlanta has indicated an interest in running for Henry County Sheriff in 2020.
He told BBC News that his ability to relate to all sorts of people will serve him well in serving the community.
"I can put on a suit and have a conversation with Bill Gates. I can go in the hood and talk to the homies, and talk to the children," he said.
