Deschutes County Sheriff places staff on leave amid misconduct allegations

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Sheriff Ty Rupert of the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office has placed three members of his staff on paid administrative leave. This action follows two formal complaints from community members alleging employee misconduct and is pending the outcome of an internal investigation.

Sheriff Rupert made this decision after consulting with Command Staff, County Legal, the District Attorney's Office, the Oregon State Police and the Professional Standards Unit. An independent outside investigator has also been retained to conduct a comprehensive review of the allegations.

Sheriff Rupert stated that placing the members on paid administrative leave was necessary to ensure a fair, thorough and unbiased process for all involved, including the complainants and the employees named in the complaints. He emphasized the retention of an independent outside investigator to ensure full transparency and accountability.

Sheriff Rupert acknowledged that situations like this can impact public trust. "We want our community and our office to know that this is an isolated incident and we take these matters seriously," Sheriff Rupert said. Out of respect for the investigation's integrity and fairness to all parties, there will be no further media releases related to this issue at this time. "I respectfully ask for the public's patience while we work through this investigation," Rupert said. The Deschutes County Sheriff's Office will continue providing the expected level of service, professionalism and public safety, according to Sheriff Rupert.

The Deschutes County Sheriff's Office has stated there will be no further media releases regarding this issue at this time. Sheriff Rupert assured the community that the office will continue to provide service, professionalism and public safety.