The Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST) has permanently revoked the law enforcement certifications of Tyler Anderson, the Jefferson County Sheriff candidate challenging incumbent Sheriff Jason Pollock in this November's general election. The decision came May 21 following a hearing before the state's Police Policy Committee.
What the Committee Found
Anderson, a former Jefferson County Sheriff's Office deputy with 17 years in law enforcement, was terminated from the JCSO in 2025 amid allegations of misconduct and dishonesty. According to records obtained by Oregon Public Broadcasting, his termination papers allege that Anderson was "untruthful" on multiple occasions.
DPSST documents also note that Anderson received an economic sanction in April 2024 after he encouraged another officer to break out a window on a suspect vehicle and then failed to file a report on the incident. He was subsequently removed from the Central Oregon Response Team.
On May 21, the Police Policy Committee voted to permanently revoke his certifications. The revocation means Anderson is legally barred from working in Oregon law enforcement for the rest of his life.
Anderson Disputes the Process
Anderson contested the proceedings at the DPSST hearing, arguing the review was procedurally flawed. "None of the witnesses, my background investigators or members of the public that we've asked to be interviewed were interviewed," Anderson told the committee before it voted.
Anderson has said he plans to contest the decision, which could go before the full DPSST board for review. At that stage, he would have an opportunity to present additional evidence and witnesses.
Still on the Ballot
Under Oregon law, the revocation of police certification does not automatically remove a candidate from the ballot. Anderson advanced to the November general election unopposed in the May 20 primary — the race had only two candidates, so no primary was held and both candidates advanced. Anderson will face incumbent Sheriff Jason Pollock in November.
Whether a non-certified individual could legally serve as county sheriff if elected remains an open legal question. The Sheriff's position is an elected, not appointed, office under Oregon statute.
What's Next
The certification revocation must still go through a formal review process before it is final. If Anderson appeals, a full DPSST board hearing would be scheduled. Meanwhile, the fall campaign is expected to intensify as both candidates vie for Jefferson County's top law enforcement position.
Sheriff Pollock, who has served one term, has not publicly commented on his opponent's certification status beyond prior statements affirming his confidence in the DPSST process.