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Deschutes County Sheriff Fires Deputy

2016 election opponent plans to sue

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Deschutes County Sheriff Shane Nelson has terminated the deputy who ran against him in the last general election. Eric Kozowski ran against Nelson in the November 2016 election, and was put on administrative leave in September 2017.

According to a DCSO press release, Kozowski was terminated based on internal investigations that concluded he violated Sheriff’s Office policies.
Another member of the Sheriff’s team, Corrections Sergeant Mike Nolan will face personnel action as a result of an internal affairs investigation to the sergeant.

The sheriff said in a press release: "I expect members of the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office to adhere to the mission and values of this office. I will continue to enforce the highest standards of professionalism and conduct at the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office."

According to an article in the Seattle Times, Kozowski’s lawyer said the firing was retaliatory and he plans to sue. Michael McGean, Kozowski’s attorney, said Kozowski was fired for wearing a uniform while campaigning.