Appointment process for interim Sheriff

Earlier this month, Sheriff Kent van der Kamp announced he will resign on July 31, 2025. Under state law, the Board of County Commssioners is required to appoint an interim replacement, who will serve until a new Sheriff is elected during the 2026 election cycle. The appointee must meet the following qualifications:  

• Must be at least 21 years old 
• Must be a resident of Deschutes County for one year prior to appointment 
• Must provide proof of certification or eligibility for certification by the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training 

Individuals who are qualified and interested in serving as the interim Sheriff will need to download and sign an Attestation of Eligibility, then submit the form along with a letter of interest and résumé via email to board@deschutes.org. All materials must be submitted by 5 p.m. on Friday, July 11.

*Please note: All applicant letters of interest submitted for this appointment will be posted on this web page for public viewing, following the redaction of all non-disclosable personal information.