Benton County Sheriff

Elected Experience
14 years served in the Washington State House of Representatives. First year serving as a member of the Kennewick City Council.

Other Professional Experience
As a teacher I have taught every grade level from 1st grade to currently teaching at the college level.

Education
Bachelors Degree: double major Biblical Studies and Behavioral Science. Masters Degree in Teaching. Graduate Central Washington University's Paramedic Program, Columbia Basin College: Emergency Medical Technician.

Community Service
30+ years uniformed military service: U.S. Army, Reserve and National Guard. Helicopter pilot, 06/COL Commander Washington State Guard. 33+ years law enforcement / Sheriff's Deputy.

Statement
I believe in God, the Constitution, and the responsibility we all share to protect our families and communities. The Sheriff’s Office should be built on trust, honesty, and service to the people. As your Sheriff, I will defend the rights of citizens, support our law enforcement officers, and work every day to keep Benton County safe; because Benton County is more than a place to live — it is our home.

I have seen firsthand the dedication and sacrifice made by the men and women who serve this county. They deserve leadership that supports them, equips them, and stands beside them. I also believe citizens deserve transparency, fairness, and a Sheriff who listens to their concerns.

My commitment is simple: protect our communities, uphold the law fairly, and preserve the freedoms that make Benton County a great place to live and raise a family. We will not allow crime, fear, or government overreach to weaken the values that make this county strong. Ready to lead, ready to serve and protect Benton County.

Elected Experience
Current Benton County Sheriff, leading 88 deputies and support staff, overseeing, and managing a multi million dollar budget, daily operations, public safety programs, hiring, promotions, long term safety strategies to ensure exceptional public safety here in Benton County.

Other Professional Experience
23 Years with the Benton County Sheriff’s Office. I have advanced through almost every rank—Deputy, Corporal, Sergeant, Lieutenant, and your current Sheriff. My experience includes extensive law enforcement training, SWAT Team Leader, Incident Commander and much more.

Education
First Level Supervision, Middle Management, Critical Incident Management, Executive Academy.

Community Service
Kiwanis, Mustang Forces, Benton Franklin Behavioral Health Advisory Committee, Benton County Law & Justice Committee.

Statement
As the current Sheriff of Benton County, protecting your rights and ensuring Exceptional Public Safety remains my highest priority! Since taking office, local crime has continued to decline, and I am committed to building on that progress through strong partnerships with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies. I will continue listening to the citizens of Benton County, taking a proactive, collaborative approach to reducing crime to ensure a safe, secure future for families in Benton County.
With decades of experience and promotions through the ranks, I am the only candidate with the Proven Law Enforcement Leadership and Training needed to run a complex sheriff’s office. My wife, Kristen, and I along with our children and grandchildren are lifelong Benton County residents. As your Sheriff, I will continue working diligently to keep Benton County safe while honoring the traditional, family oriented values that define our community.
I am the only candidate endorsed by the following: Benton County Republican Party, Mayors of Kennewick, Richland, West Richland, Prosser, Benton City and Pasco, along with all three Benton County Commissioners, Benton County Prosecutor, several state representatives, and numerous law enforcement professionals! I am respectfully asking for your vote on Election Day. Thank you!