Kotek names former Portland police chief, Multnomah Co. sheriff Mike Reese to head Dept. of Corrections

SALEM, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Governor Tina Kotek announced Tuesday that she has appointed Mike Reese to head the Oregon Department of Corrections. Reese brings over 30 years of experience in the public safety sector to the position. Most recently, he served as the Multnomah County sheriff.
 
“I am grateful to Acting Director Heidi Steward stepping up to lead and staying the course through the pandemic,” Governor Kotek said. “I have confidence in incoming Director Reese’s ability to bring a clear vision and advance the organizational and cultural changes needed to bring forward the next chapter at DOC. He has an unparalleled record within the public safety sector for being a collaborator and a problem solver, guided by justice, equity, and a commitment to uphold the public’s trust.”
 
Incoming Director Reese began his career in law enforcement over 30 years ago as a deputy for the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office in 1989. Five years later, he joined the Portland Police Bureau and rose through the ranks to serve as one of the longest-standing police chiefs in the city in recent history. In 2016, he was elected Multnomah County sheriff, where he managed a $175 million budget and 800 employees and the largest jail system in Oregon. He served until 2022 when he retired from the office.
 
Incoming Director Reese holds two degrees from Portland State University, including a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and an Executive Master’s in Public Administration. He also attended the DEA Drug Unit Commanders Academy and the FBI National Executive Institute.

In addition to public safety, Director Reese has held paid and volunteer positions for non-profits, including working as a counselor, director and later serving as a board member of the Boys and Girls Club of Portland. He has also served as a board member of Transition Projects, the Irvington Community Association and the First Christian Church.
 
“As DOC director, I will do my very best to lead this department, our staff, and adults in custody towards better outcomes," he said. "The Department of Corrections is a core pillar of our public safety system. Our ability to adequately rehabilitate adults in custody and recruit, train and retain a skilled workforce driven by accountability, integrity and professionalism has a direct impact on Oregon communities, and I am resolved to ensure these standards are met.”