A 21-year veteran of the Arapahoe County Sheriff's Office has resigned after officials discovered her secret career in the adult film industry. Shannon Lofland, 44, revealed that financial desperation forced her to make this difficult decision.

Facing mounting bills, foreclosure, and rising costs, Ms. Lofland briefly turned to the adult entertainment industry as a way to make ends meet. “I was drowning financially,” she told CBS News. “I found a legal, lucrative way to support my family and save our home.”

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Ms. Lofland’s financial struggles began after a devastating hailstorm in June 2023 caused $500,000 worth of damage to her home—costs her insurance refused to cover. At the same time, skyrocketing interest rates tripled her adjustable-rate mortgage, pushing her home into foreclosure. Combined with rising utility, gas, and food prices, the financial pressure became insurmountable. Despite draining her savings, borrowing from family, and drastically cutting expenses, debt collectors continued to hound her.

“At the time, I had no other lucrative options,” Ms. Lofland said, adding that her husband fully supported her decision. During the brief period she worked in the adult industry, she participated in approximately six scenes, earning enough money to cover her mortgage and stabilize her finances. She emphasized that the industry was professional and that she faced no coercion or undue pressure.

The sheriff’s office launched an internal investigation after learning about her side job, although they have not disclosed how they discovered her activities. Ms. Lofland admitted to violating departmental policies by not seeking prior approval for secondary employment. “I knew it was against policy and could be seen as leading a double life,” she acknowledged.

On Tuesday, Ms. Lofland officially resigned from her position, expressing her deep regret and love for the job she held for over two decades. “I’ve been dedicated and loyal. I truly loved my job and the lives I’ve been able to impact,” she said.

Additionally, she stepped down from her role on Colorado’s Peace Officer Standards and Training board weeks before her resignation. Looking ahead, Ms. Lofland remains uncertain about her next steps but hasn’t ruled out continuing her work in the adult entertainment industry. “Some may judge and say there are ‘better’ ways to make money, but at that moment, I had no other options,” she concluded.

Ms. Lofland’s story is a stark reminder of the financial hardships many individuals face and the difficult choices they sometimes must make to survive. While her decision has sparked controversy, it also sheds light on the resilience and determination needed to navigate personal crises in challenging times.