Prosecutors in Louisiana are investigating Shelton in connection with the death of Justin James, 19, in October 2005. Coroner's officials ruled his death a homicide, saying he died of an overdose of cocaine, Xanax and morphine. Shelton was the last person with James.

Shelton's career at Manhattan Beach ended in 2003 after he accused former Chief Ernest Klevesahl and other officers of harassing him because he was gay. He later was arrested on drug prescription forgery charges in Long Beach and for trespassing with an 18-year-old man on a ranch in Moorpark.