This sheriff was nothing if not reminiscent of recent sheriff races that were tarnished with investigations and accusations of politicking and theatrics.

Both candidates in this year’s contest have served the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office for nearly 20 years, and both candidates are currently under investigation. Interim Sheriff Rupert opened an internal investigation into McLaughlin in June for misconduct allegations stemming from a SWAT raid in February. More recently, in August, the Oregon Government Ethics Commission announced that a preliminary review of Rupert’s alleged misuse of county resources found enough evidence for the body to open a full investigation.

In a text message to the Source Tuesday evening, McLaughlin acknowledged the results, adding that he nonetheless “proud of our community and this campaign. Regardless of the outcome, love wins.”