Deschutes County Sheriff Expelled from Oregon State Sheriffs’ Association Board
BEND, Ore. — The Oregon State Sheriffs’ Association (OSSA) made headlines last week by expelling Deschutes County Sheriff Kent van der Kamp from its board of directors following serious allegations regarding his honesty. The unanimous decision to remove him was taken on May 14, shortly after District Attorney Steve Gunnels of Deschutes County placed van der Kamp on a "Brady List." This list comprises individuals whose credibility is questioned, in van der Kamp’s case due to a noted "pattern of dishonesty."
The controversy stems from an investigation into van der Kamp that revealed inconsistencies regarding his educational and professional background. A report from the Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training indicated he had provided false testimony under oath in multiple criminal trials. These findings prompted Gunnels to declare that van der Kamp would not be called as a witness in future criminal cases, citing his misleading information.
Despite the gravity of the charges, van der Kamp has stated he does not intend to resign, asserting that the investigatory document has not been adjudicated and does not mandate immediate action. He has expressed a willingness to reevaluate his position based on future determinations regarding his law enforcement certification.
The OSSA’s decision was reached after its Executive Committee reviewed the case and determined that van der Kamp be given the chance to present his side. However, he declined to appear at the board meeting or submit any written defense. Consequently, 32 out of the 36 sheriffs in Oregon participated in the vital vote, with van der Kamp excluded from both the vote and the decision-making process. While he has been expelled from the OSSA Board, he retains his position as Deschutes County Sheriff.
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