With the Sheriff retiring soon, a vacancy will be left unfilled from December to February. Who will fill the office of Sheriff until the Commission votes for the interim?

Hello Reader,

That’s a great question! And, it’s one I went to Lewis County Mayor Jonah Keltner, and Todd Laster of the Sheriff’s Department to get the answer for.

Due to age and length of service, 30+ year Sheriff Dwayne Kilpatrick submitted his letter of resignation, declaring his retirement in December. At that time, Chief Deputy Matt Tiller will assume the duties of the Sheriff until February 24th, when the Lewis County Board of Commissioners appoints an individual to serve out the remaining term of Sheriff.

Interested in filling the vacancy as Sheriff? Any qualified candidate must deliver in person, or by mail, a Sheriff’s qualification packet to the Peace Officer Standards and Training Commission. Deadline for submissions is January 10, 2025.