Richard Shepard to Shepherd Salem for WGN

WGN America’s first original scripted series, a drama titled “Salem” from Brannon Braga (“24,” “Star Trek: TNG,” “Terra Nova”) and Adam Simon (The Haunting in Connecticut), has landed itself a director and executive producer. Read on for details.

According to Deadline, Richard Shepard will serve as director and executive producer on the project, part of his deal with 20th Century Fox TV. “Salem” is set in the volatile world of 17th century Massachusetts and explores what really fueled the town’s infamous witch trials and dares to uncover the dark, supernatural truth hiding behind the veil of this infamous period in American history.

“Salem” has a 13-episode order and is slated to begin production in the fall in Louisiana for a 2014 premiere.

More as it comes.