Deschutes County has another candidate for sheriff. Sergeant Kent Vander Kamp announced Wednesday that he’s running for the job.
“The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office desperately needs a fresh perspective, increased accountability, and renewed public confidence,” Vander Kamp said in his announcement. “After nearly a decade marred by legal battles, controversies, and negative headlines, it is clear the Sheriff’s Office must change course.”
Vander Kamp currently leads the Central Oregon Drug Enforcement team as a detective. He’s also an active volunteer with multiple local organizations.
“I am the only candidate for Sheriff with the executive experience, formal business education, and award-winning leadership needed to develop a strategic plan with measurable goals for crime reduction, traffic safety, community engagement, and homelessness,” Vander Kamp said.
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Vander Kamp recently earned the FBI Law Enforcement Executive Development Association (FBI-LEEDA) Trilogy Award. FBI-LEEDA provides law enforcement agencies with advanced leadership training and professional development.
The sergeant was also recognized this month by Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) for his work on impaired driving enforcement and investigations.
Captain William Bailey, who serves as the Patrol Division Commander for the sheriff’s office, announced his candidacy on July 7. He’s been endorsed by current Sheriff Shane Nelson, who will retire at the end of his term in January 2025.
