HomeMy WebLinkAboutSheriff Plan Support Ltr - Stateregon John A. Kitzhaber, MD, Governor January 14, 2015 Commissioner (Chair) Tony DeBone Commissioner Tammy Baney Commissioner Alan Unger Deschutes County Board of Commissioners 1300 NW Wall St, Suite 200 Bend, Oregon 97701 Department of State Police 20355 Poe Sholes Dr., Suite 100 Bend, OR 97701-7938 (541) 388-6213 Fax: (541) 388-6241 Please accept this letter of support, for Deschutes County Sheriff Larry Blanton's recommendation Captain Shane Nelson be awarded the position of Sheriff. The Deschutes County Sheriff's Office enjoys the hard earned reputation as one of the most progressive, accountable and professional law enforcement agencies in Oregon. As a police executive that lives and works in Deschutes County, I can offer assurance the professionalism of this agency is due, in large part, to the current leadership. While I congratulate Sheriff Blanton on his well-earned retirement, I was pleased when he announced his recommendation for successor. I have known Captain Shane Nelson personally and professionally for over ten years and support his appointment as the next Deschutes County Sheriff without reservation. Captain Nelson has the experience and credibility to assume this important position, including both from a leadership and management perspective. He is an excellent communicator, inspiring confidence and respect from members within and outside his agency. Captain Nelson would offer a seamless succession of leadership at the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office, his current service in the agency executive staff will be invaluable during the coming months of transition. While Sheriff Blanton's recommendation for Captain Nelson to assume this position speaks volumes, I hope this letter also offers the intended support from the Oregon State Police. Thank you for taking the time to read this letter of support, I would be happy to answer any questions or offer similar support in a public forum. Travis Hampton, Major Oregon State Police Field Operations Commander (541) 633-2237 travis.hampton@state.or.us