Two days after Jefferson County voters cast their primary ballots, a state law enforcement oversight committee recommended that sheriff candidate Tyler Anderson be permanently stripped of his police certifications — a move that, if finalized, could legally prevent him from serving as sheriff even if elected.
The Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST) Police Policy Committee voted on May 21 to recommend lifetime revocation of Anderson’s law enforcement certifications. The full 26-member DPSST board will make a final decision at its July 21 meeting. Anderson has indicated he plans to appeal, a process that could extend well beyond six months.
Background: Firing, Brady List, and Campaign
Anderson, a 17-year law enforcement veteran and former Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office deputy, was fired from JCSO in April 2025 following an investigation into alleged ethical violations. Investigators found he omitted from his job application that he had previously been fired from a volunteer position at the Parma, Idaho Police Department. Anderson acknowledged he knew disclosing the Idaho firing would have hurt his chances of being hired locally.
Investigators also alleged Anderson deleted text messages between himself and an informant, and disclosed to colleagues a past history of cocaine use and involvement packaging drugs for a dealer during college.
Following his termination, both the Jefferson County and Crook County District Attorneys placed Anderson on the Brady List — a disclosure roster used by prosecutors to flag officers whose credibility may compromise criminal cases in court.
What Anderson Said at the Hearing
Anderson appeared before the DPSST committee and disputed the thoroughness of the investigation.
“None of the witnesses, my background investigators or members of the public that we’ve asked to be interviewed were interviewed,” Anderson told the committee. “The investigation led to the point where it seemed like I was being dishonest and stopped.”
He acknowledged making mistakes on his application but disputed that the Parma department had records of his employment. Committee members said they had confirmed his service there. Anderson denied deleting evidence and said he passed a polygraph on the question of deception. On past drug use, he called two instances of cocaine use “a stupid decision” and called the omission on his application “an oversight.”
Legal Stakes for the Sheriff’s Race
Oregon law requires a county sheriff to hold active law enforcement certification within one year of taking office. If Anderson’s certifications are ultimately revoked, he could be legally disqualified from serving even if voters elect him in November.
Anderson told the Madras Pioneer the ruling would not affect his campaign.
“We are looking forward to a trial with an administrative judge and feel confident we will win,” Anderson said. “This will not affect my campaign for sheriff.”
The DPSST full board meets July 21. Incumbent Sheriff Jason Pollock, who Anderson faces in November, has not publicly commented on the committee’s ruling.