Shaquille O’Neal submits application to become a sheriff’s deputy in Cleveland

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It looks as if Shaquille O’Neal is no longer satisfied with just being LeBron James’ bodyguard.

The world’s tallest purveyor of law enforcement has submitted an application to become a special sheriff’s deputy in Ohio.

Cuyahoga County Sheriff’s Office spokesman John O’Brien confirmed to the Associated Press that Shaq has submitted a formal request to become a special deputy.

If approved, Shaq would have the right to make arrests and carry a weapon even though he wouldn’t be a paid employee. First, though, he would need 36 hours of police training and to pass a police exam.

Of course, this isn’t Shaq’s first foray into the world of law enforcement. He’s worked in similar roles for other local agencies in the past.

I wonder if Shaq has a plan for detaining the Lakers’ hopes of a second consecutive NBA title?

-- Austin Knoblauch