A Washington County deputy who worked in records management has resigned in the midst of an investigation.

Ricky Harry Gruber, 43, of Oakdale, left his job Tuesday, Sheriff Bill Hutton confirmed Wednesday. Gruber, a 15-year employee of the Sheriff's Office, had been working in the department's special services division.

Hutton said he couldn't talk about the reasons behind Gruber's departure because an investigation is ongoing. The sheriff did say, however, that Gruber's resignation was unexpected.

Gruber began working at the Sheriff's Office in September 1997, Hutton said.

Attempts to reach Gruber for comment Wednesday evening were unsuccessful.

KEVIN GILES AND NICOLE NORFLEET