The Jefferson County sheriff’s race enters a critical new chapter this summer: on July 21, 2026, the full board of the Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST) will vote on whether to permanently revoke the law enforcement certifications of challenger Tyler Anderson -- a decision that could have major legal implications for his ability to serve as sheriff if elected in November.

What the Committee Found

On May 21, DPSST’s Police Policy Committee voted to recommend lifetime revocation of Anderson’s certifications. The recommendation came after a hearing during which Anderson disputed the thoroughness of the investigation.

Anderson was fired from the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office in April 2025 after a probe into a series of alleged misconduct, including:

  • Omitting prior employment at a Parma, Idaho police volunteer position on job applications, which he later acknowledged, saying he knew it would hurt his chances of being hired.
  • Alleged deletion of text messages with an informant.
  • Disclosures to colleagues that he had previously used cocaine and helped package drugs for a dealer in college.

Following his termination, two local district attorneys placed Anderson on a Brady List -- a roster maintained by prosecutors identifying officers with documented credibility concerns whose testimony could jeopardize court cases.

Anderson’s Defense

At the May 21 hearing, Anderson pushed back against the committee’s findings, saying key witnesses -- including background investigators and members of the public -- were never interviewed.

"The investigation led to the point where it seemed like I was being dishonest and stopped," Anderson told the committee, which voted to proceed with the recommendation regardless.

Anderson confirmed he used cocaine twice, calling it "a stupid decision," but denied being a drug dealer or deleting evidence, saying he passed a polygraph on both points. He acknowledged omitting the Idaho volunteer position but called it "an oversight."

"I understand how important it is to always be honest," he said. "I would not risk my career over something so minor."

What Happens If Certifications Are Revoked

Oregon law requires a sheriff to obtain valid law enforcement certification within one year of taking office. If the DPSST board confirms the revocation at its July 21 meeting, Anderson would technically be barred from serving -- though an appeals process could extend the timeline for six months or more, potentially beyond the November election.

Anderson told the Madras Pioneer after the May 21 vote that he plans to pursue an appeal and remains in the race. "We are looking forward to a trial with an administrative judge and feel confident we will win," he said. "This will not affect my campaign for sheriff."

Pollock’s Position

Incumbent Sheriff Jason Pollock, who fired Anderson in 2025 and is now running against him, is seeking his second full term. Pollock was first appointed in June 2022 and won the primary election that year. He has not publicly commented on the DPSST proceedings beyond statements from the Sheriff’s Office regarding Anderson’s original termination.

Jefferson County voters will face a clear choice in November -- and the July 21 DPSST ruling may shape how that choice is understood.