What role did sheriff play in the Tulsa riot of 1921?

During the Tulsa Race Riot of 1921, the sheriff, W.E. "Bill" McCullough, played a controversial role. Initially, he attempted to maintain order in the face of rising tensions between white residents and the Black community in Greenwood. However, as violence erupted, his response was criticized for being inadequate; he did not effectively intervene to protect the Black citizens, leading to widespread destruction and loss of life in Greenwood. His actions—or lack thereof—contributed to the chaos and the failure to curb the violence.