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Search for Two DCSO Captains Continues

BEND, OR -- The Deschutes County Sheriff continues to search for qualified candidates to fill key command positions, following the departure of two captains. Sheriff Shane Nelson admits he’s received advice to look outside the department, in light of the recent upheaval. "I reached out and wanted to hear from my teammates at the Sheriff’s Office. I’ve gotten input from ‘take a look on the inside’ and ‘take a look outside,’ and nothing is off the table right now. I want to do what’s best for the organization." He tells KBND News, "I think there’s benefits to taking a look at all types of scenarios because eberybody brings something positive to the table. And, the important thing to remember is, if you find out that somebody didn’t bring something positive to the table, and they’re not in line with your mission and values, or there’s unethical behavior, they’re not going to work with us anymore."

 

Former Captain Scott Beard faces criminal charges he embezzled more than $200,000 of investigative funds from the department. He was indicted and then fired, late last month. Less than a week later Erik Utter resigned amid an investigation into policy violations. Their departures leave just one Captain left - Deron McMaster, Corrections Division Commander.
 
Sheriff Nelson says, "I would like to have two new captains seated within six weeks, or maybe less. But, I also don’t want to rush the process. I want to thoroughly vet the decision making process and do the best we can."

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