Vander Kamp steps into role as sheriff

Photo provided

Sheriff Kent Vander Kamp.

On Wednesday, December 18, the Deschutes County Board of Commissioners approved the appointment of Kent Vander Kamp as Deschutes County Sheriff for the period of January 1, 2025, until his term of office begins on January 6, 2025. The appointment is required by state law because Sheriff Shane Nelson retires on December 31, leaving the position vacant until Vander Kamp can be officially sworn in on Monday, January 6.

Vander Kamp won election to the office November 5.

"I am deeply honored to accept the appointment by the Board of Commissioners to serve as Deschutes County Sheriff during this transitional period," Vander Kamp said in a statement. "I look forward to officially stepping into this role and continuing to build on the trust and collaboration our community deserves."

The incoming sheriff announced his selections for the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office command staff:

• Undersheriff Aaron Wells

• Patrol Captain Mike Sundberg

• Detective Captain Ty Rupert

• Corrections Captain Mike Shults

• Administrative Captain Bill Bailey.

"These individuals bring a wealth of experience and a shared commitment to excellence. I am confident their leadership will inspire and support us all as we work toward our shared goals." said Sheriff-elect Vander Kamp.

Captain Bailey ran against Vander Kamp in the November 5 election.

The Sheriff oversees the 3,055 square mile county and manages more than 260 employees. The office operates with a $67 million dollar budget that includes patrol, corrections, court security, search and rescue, administrative services, special services, SWAT, and automotive maintenance. The Deschutes County Sheriff's Office provides patrol services throughout the county and the incorporated cities of Sisters and La Pine.