The race for Jefferson County Sheriff moved into dramatically new territory on May 21 when Oregon’s Police Policy Committee voted to recommend that challenger Tyler Anderson be permanently stripped of his law enforcement certifications — a move that could legally bar him from serving as sheriff even if voters elect him in November.

The committee’s recommendation now goes to the full 26-member board of the Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST), which is scheduled to make a final decision at its July 21 meeting. Anderson has said he plans to appeal, and an appeals process could stretch well beyond six months.

What the Committee Found

Anderson, a 17-year law enforcement veteran and former Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office deputy, was fired from the department in April 2025 following an internal investigation. Among the findings:

  • Anderson omitted prior employment at the Parma, Idaho Police Department from his job applications to Jefferson County. He acknowledged omitting the information, saying he knew it would hurt his chances of being hired, but characterized it as “an oversight.”
  • Officials allege Anderson deleted text message conversations with a confidential informant. Anderson denied this and said he passed a polygraph test on the matter.
  • Anderson allegedly told colleagues he had previously used cocaine and helped package drugs while in college. He confirmed using cocaine twice, calling it “a stupid decision,” but denied ever dealing or purchasing drugs.

Two local district attorneys subsequently placed Anderson on a Brady List — a roster used by prosecutors to flag officers whose history of misconduct or dishonesty could undermine their credibility as witnesses in court.

Anderson Contests the Process

During the May 21 hearing, Anderson argued the DPSST investigation had been incomplete.

“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.”

DPSST committee members responded that they had independently confirmed his Idaho employment. On the certification question, Anderson maintained: “I understand how important it is to always be honest. I would not risk my career over something so minor.”

What This Means for the Sheriff’s Race

Oregon law requires that a county sheriff hold valid law enforcement certification within one year of taking office. If Anderson’s certifications are ultimately revoked and his appeal fails, he would be legally ineligible to serve as Jefferson County Sheriff even if elected in the November 3 general election.

Anderson told the Madras Pioneer after the vote that the committee’s recommendation 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. My certifications will remain in good standing and we will move on to the next step of the trial.”

Incumbent Sheriff Jason Pollock, who has held the position and built a record of expanding the department’s staffing, will face Anderson on the November ballot. Voters will weigh not only the candidates’ qualifications but the unresolved legal cloud hanging over Anderson’s candidacy as the DPSST board deliberates this summer.