A Message From Our President

The Office of Sheriff is unlike any other in the American legal system. We are not merely department heads; we are the only law enforcement officials that directly answer to the people. This direct accountability creates a unique bond of trust and a mandate to protect not just the peace, but the constitutional rights of every citizen in our jurisdictions. In the West, the role of the sheriff carries a greater historical and practical weight. From our metropolitan hubs to the most remote and rural counties, the Sheriff remains the primary symbol of stability and justice. We are the stewards of the land, the protectors of our neighborhoods and the ultimate line of defense for the rule of law.

The extent of our strength does not reside solely in our individual offices. It resides here – in this association. The WSSA is the collective voice of the Western Sheriff and together, along with our partner entities we can affect significant change. During his time as WSSA president, Sheriff Mark Dannels coined the phrase “America’s Sheriffs” as a moniker of strength in numbers often using the reference in discussions to impact important policy decisions. We do in fact enjoy strength in numbers and we must rely on each other with a single voice to protect the office of sheriff.

The success of this association is directly proportionate to the involvement of its membership. We are the best when we share our experiences, our innovations, our struggles and our successes. I am calling on each of you to engage in association activities this year. Whether through committee work, legislative outreach, or simply showing up to support a colleague in a neighboring state, your active participation is the fuel that drives our influence. When we speak as a unified body representing our 19 states, our voice is impossible to ignore.

One of my primary goals for this term is to forge and fortify strategic partnerships with other national entities. We will remain active in the American Sheriff Alliance discussing the most pressing needs of sheriffs across the country. At a national level, policy discussions often lack the nuance of the issues we all face at a ground level. We will work with legislative bodies and federal agencies to communicate our positions and seek common sense action.

This year will undoubtedly bring trials we have not yet anticipated. I am confident that by leaning into our heritage as Sheriffs and our unity as an association, we will not only meet those challenges but will emerge stronger.

I am eager to work alongside each of you. Thank you for your trust, your dedication, and your tireless service to your communities. Let’s get to work.