In the News

If you described your ideal candidate for the next sheriff of Deschutes County, what attributes would be included?

• Possessing a breadth of experience and proven leadership abilities in law enforcement?

• Very honest, respectful, and extremely hard working?

• True to his word with strong morals and integrity?

• Committed to innovative crime prevention techniques?

• A track record of fostering positive relationships with community members, local organizations, and other agencies?

These descriptors — direct quotes from people who know or have worked with him — epitomize William Bailey, who has dedicated himself to serving and protecting others. In his words, “it’s ingrained in my DNA, and what I’ve always wanted to do with my life.”

From serving in the U.S. Coast Guard, to spending 24+ years with the DCSO, and working his way up through the organization in positions of increasing responsibility, Bailey has stayed true to his principles and promises, and worked tirelessly for the people of Deschutes County to keep all of us safe.

If elected, Bailey plans to focus on achievable but ambitious priorities that include working with community partners to move homeless encampments off public lands in Deschutes County; aggressively enforcing drug laws; ensuring that our roads and highways are safer for everyone; and establishing personal connections between deputies and those living in outlying areas.

Bailey has continually demonstrated that he possesses the knowledge and abilities to address the diverse needs of our ever-evolving community

Bend Bulletin, Source Weekly, letter to the editor

September 19, 2024

Submitted by Andrea Hine and Marvin Pugh

I am an Army veteran and wildland firefighter currently working in emergency response and logistical support. I want to thank Capt. William Bailey for his recent guest column “How I will fight fire danger from homeless camps.” I appreciate his leadership on this issue and a well thought out, actionable plan.

The local issue of fires starting in homeless encampments hits close to home/work, literally. My office and our fleet of firefighting rigs are located in Redmond. For years now, we have dealt with known unhoused individuals cutting our fence and attempting to siphon fuel. We have also been in the evacuation zone on more than one occasion when a fire from the nearby encampment starts.

Reckless/uneducated cooking, propane heating, even charging a vaping pen have been the cause of fires in homeless camps. In these weather conditions any spark can start a fire. Homeless camps are a recipe for disaster for the homeless camping there and neighboring residents, businesses, airport, medical facilities, etc.

Our wildland outfit operates throughout the country, but we have also participated in local incidents like the Darlene 3 fire near La Pine. I can confirm these near-misses are just that. Thankfully the wind was favorable that day and thankfully a robust response was available. In our line of work, we know any fire can be devastating, but a preventable fire is especially tragic.

I have been impressed with William Bailey and his vision as our next sheriff of Deschutes County. His ability to work with local, state, and federal officials, local neighbors, and service providers is a testament to his readiness to lead our county as the top elected public safety officer. I am supporting William Bailey for Deschutes County Sheriff.

Bend Bulletin, letter to the editor

September 6, 2024

Submitted by Keith Rockow

I researched candidates for sheriff which led me to feel very uncomfortable about one of the candidates and the fact it appears he has current additional careers besides DCSO. Someone who indicates they are not fully dedicated to their current role doesn’t bode well for the rigorous demands required of a Sheriff.

A flashy website (vaguely mentioning the “other job”) showing an action-packed video is not only fraught with fiction, but absolutely eye rolling in nature.

I’d like to compliment William Bailey on a website that answers my questions. William Bailey posts his actual education rather than a vague reference about being more educated where you have to hunt around for actual facts as the random numbers presented answer nothing. William Bailey isn’t trying to wow anyone with photos that look like stock or AI and have zero to do with the position of Sheriff. William Bailey seems real, genuine, and trustworthy.

 We need a sheriff who prioritizes saving lives and keeping our whole community safe. I want a sheriff who isn’t occupied with side professions and worldwide travel. I want a sheriff who is focused, driven and wants to connect directly with the local community. That’s why after extensive research I am supporting William Bailey for Sheriff. 

Bend Bulletin, letter to the editor

August 12, 2024

Submitted by Jenny Stelzer

We are endorsing William Bailey for Deschutes County Sheriff for a magnitude of reasons. 

William Bailey is consistently kind, fair, trustworthy, and helpful in all aspects of his personal and professional life. William Bailey has led a life of service to others, from his service in the U.S. Coast Guard, and through the ranks and many departments over 23 years at the Sheriff’s Office. William Bailey has put every ounce of dedication, hard work, and perseverance into an unwavering commitment to public safety and serving our community.

We know William Bailey to be humble, appreciative of every opportunity to learn more and to serve better. He is 100% dedicated to success, positive impacts, and achieving the goals needed to lead DCSO effectively.

We believe William Bailey is everything Deschutes County needs in the next sheriff. William Bailey makes it a priority to take care of those under his command and guidance in a positive helpful manner, while also holding people accountable when needed. He is positive, genuine, and independent in his thinking.

In support of William Bailey, we attended a Sheriff’s candidate forum in Sunriver. What we witnessed was that the other candidate doesn’t nearly have the qualifications, broad experience across the Sheriff’s Office and in the community, nor the same level of commitment to public safety and service compared to William Bailey.

William Bailey’s transparency, commitment, character and leadership ability is why he has our endorsement and vote for Sheriff.

Bend Bulletin, letter to the editor

June 6, 2024

Submitted by John and Elka Christenson

We are writing to show our support for William (Bill) Bailey for Deschutes County Sheriff.

We first met William Bailey (Bill) last year when our sons became friends in middle school. They became fast friends and have since grown into family. Bill and his family have shown my son, as well as my daughter, support, and love. Both my children love spending time with Bill and his family and know that they are always there if they need any guidance.

As a mother and educator in Deschutes County, I know how important it is for kids to have safe adults in their life looking out for them and their well-being. Bill hears our concerns about safety in the schools and in the community. He helps set our minds at ease and talks us through his vision and the things he will accomplish as Sheriff. Bill has heart, integrity and loyalty. He is hard working and works tirelessly for our community. We know he is destined to be the next Sheriff in Deschutes County and we support him throughout this journey.

Source Weekly, letter to the editor

May 22, 2024

Submitted by Dawn and Jon Roberts

In Deschutes County, the role of sheriff demands a blend of integrity, experience, and a deep commitment to community safety. As we assess the attributes essential for this critical position, it becomes evident that candidate Capt. William Bailey embodies the qualities necessary to lead effectively.

First and foremost, a sheriff must possess unwavering integrity. Integrity is the cornerstone of trust between law enforcement and the community they serve. With his 23-plus year career in law enforcement, Capt. William Bailey has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to upholding the highest ethical standards, earning the trust and respect of both colleagues and constituents alike.

Experience is another vital attribute for a sheriff. In a diverse and ever-evolving county like Deschutes, navigating complex challenges requires a leader with a breadth of experience. Capt. William Bailey’s extensive background in law enforcement equips him with the knowledge and insights needed to address the diverse needs of our community, from rural areas to urban centers. Moreover, community engagement and collaboration are paramount for effective law enforcement.

Bailey’s track record of fostering positive relationships with community members, local organizations, and other agencies underscores his ability to unite stakeholders in the pursuit of safer neighborhoods and stronger communities.

In conclusion, Deschutes County deserves a sheriff who embodies integrity, possesses unparalleled experience, and prioritizes community engagement. Capt. Bailey not only meets these criteria but exceeds them, making him the clear choice for Deschutes County sheriff. 

Bend Bulletin, letter to the editor

April 23, 2024

Submitted by Chris Piper

I support Captain William Bailey for Sheriff. He’s an innovative leader, and someone I have come to know and trust.

Complex issues are on the rise in our community. One significant problem is illegal camping on public lands. And unfortunately, crime is now high in these public areas and adjacent neighborhoods. Additionally, as homeless camp populations have grown, so has the danger and risk of fire.

While solving the entire problem of homelessness and threat of wildfire is outside of Captain Bailey’s control, he has gone out of his way to work with state, county, and national officials, neighborhood groups, deputies and individuals to find solutions, take action, and protect all citizens.

Captain Bailey came up with an innovative approach to mitigating fires and increasing public safety presence in the national forest. While increasing patrols there, he assigned and directed a deputy to identify and stop unsafe fire use, and to carry a fire extinguisher and water tank in the patrol vehicle. This action alone stopped at least nine fires from spreading during the height of wildfire season 2023.

Captain Bailey’s astute action undoubtedly saved people, animals, homes, forest lands, and likely saved millions of dollars in firefighting efforts.

Captain Bailey goes above and beyond with attentiveness, far beyond what the job title entails. He is smart as a whip and uses his intelligence to effectively problem solve at this time when our county requires it most.

Thank you Captain Bailey, you have my support for Deschutes County Sheriff. 

Bend Bulletin, letter to the editor

April 17, 2024

Submitted by Adam McAboy

I am writing to endorse William (Bill) Bailey for Deschutes County Sheriff.

I first met Bill back when our son (now 13) showed up for his first T-ball game, and Bill introduced himself as the coach. We knew they were having a hard time finding a parent to volunteer, and if no one stepped up then we wouldn’t have a season, but thankfully Bill volunteered. I didn’t realize at that time what he did for a living, but the next week, having had to come straight from work, Bill showed up in his uniform, and that is when I realized he worked for the Sheriff’s Office. I remember my son and the other kids thought it was really cool that their coach helped catch bad guys, and I also remember my husband and I thinking how much we respected Bill volunteering his time imagining the demands and hours necessary in a job like that.

 As a citizen and business owner in Deschutes County, I believe that it is essential to have a leader who is committed to improving our community, who demonstrates their commitment to public service by volunteering, and who works tirelessly to make our community better. That person without a doubt in my mind is William (Bill) Bailey. Other attributes that describe Bill’s character are loyal, reliable, extremely hard working, family-oriented and a natural leader who always strive to go above and beyond the call of duty to help the community he loves. 

Bend Bulletin, letter to the editor

April 1, 2024

Submitted by Debbie Graham

Deschutes County deserves more than a part-time mortgage broker, part-time investment banker, and hobby law enforcement professional in our next elected sheriff. We don’t need someone who checks their side gig email during lunch breaks and has divided attention. In our next elected sheriff, we deserve someone who is focused and fully committed to the public safety of Deschutes County. 

As a longtime Deschutes County resident, who served as Bend’s mayor, and on the city council for two decades, I have been around a lot of elected leaders. Some elected positions are designed to be citizen positions, and there is little to no salary or benefits. But there are some positions designed, and expected, to be a full-time commitment. 

William Bailey gets my vote for sheriff. William Bailey is experienced, qualified, and ready, he is clearly the candidate who is fully committed with undivided attention. 

Bend Bulletin, letter to the editor

March 5, 2024

Submitted by Kathie Eckman

William Bailey is the Sheriff we need in Deschutes County after Sheriff Shane Nelson retires. This is a critical time for Deschutes County community members, visitors, and businesses, and we need someone who has broad experience, full commitment, and the right temperament and communication skills. Our next Sheriff will need to effectively work with individuals, community groups, local, state, and federal officials. I speak from experience, as former speaker of the Oregon House, former state senator, former Deschutes County commissioner, and former secretary of state.

The issues we face in Deschutes County today are complex, and growing, especially around homelessness, and drugs. Law enforcement can be, and should, be part of the solution, with the right leadership. I am supporting William Bailey for Deschutes County Sheriff because he’s got what it takes and is the right leader at the right time.

I am also a lifelong Oregonian, raised on a farm in Terrebonne. Deschutes County has always prided itself on not being Portland, or California, and now more than ever, we cannot let our county become like metro area counties. Public safety is an important part of a thriving community, and their leadership matters. When people feel safe, they can engage, grow, and give back. Please join me in supporting William Bailey for Deschutes County Sheriff, the right leader at the right time. 

Bend Bulletin, letter to the editor

February 13, 2024

Submitted by Bev Clarno

We are writing to voice our support of William W. Bailey for Deschutes County sheriff.

We have known Capt. Bailey for more than 20 years and have had the privilege to work alongside him at the sheriff’s office.

We have watched as Capt. Bailey has risen through the ranks within the department serving our community as a corrections deputy, patrol deputy, detective, sergeant, lieutenant and captain.

All along the way he has handled himself professionally, displaying a high degree of honesty and integrity.

Capt. Bailey is a dedicated family man with a vested interest in the safety and livability of Deschutes County. He has worked tirelessly to lead the sheriff’s office in accomplishing their mission, “Proudly serving our community by providing superior public safety and customer service.” 

Capt. Bailey has the experience needed to tackle the issues facing our community. 

Homelessness, mental health, drug addiction and traffic safety are among the most difficult issues law enforcement encounter on a daily basis. Capt. Bailey has the empathy, compassion, and experience needed to collaborate with community partners to develop strategies and programs that balance the needs of the individual and the safety of our community. 

My wife and I believe Capt. William Bailey is the right person to lead the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office and he has earned our support in the upcoming election. 

Bend Bulletin, letter to the editor

January 15, 2024

Submitted by Brent and Sara Crosswhite

I support William Bailey for Deschutes County Sheriff. As a Marine, I know there are risks the general public will never be aware of, and thank law enforcement professionals and first responders for keeping us safe from things that will never make headlines.

As someone who grew up in Deschutes County, and has generations of family members still living in central Oregon, I know we need a strong leader, with broad experience and a proven record. As a grandson, I know a few local heroes including (now) Captain Bailey, who helped save my grandpa’s life.

Thanks to Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, (then) Deputy Sheriff Clint Baltzor, Sgt. William Bailey, Deputy Stacy Crawford, and Deputy Todd Kloss, my Grandpa Sonny is alive and thriving in his 80s. If this team of heroes had not responded so quickly, had my grandma Julie not had the courage to perform early CPR before the deputies arrived with their AED to get a shock to grandpa that restored his heart rhythm, this would be a different story.

These heroes, including my grandma, and La Pine Rural Protection District, Deschutes County Dispatch, and AirLink worked as a team, and saved my grandpa’s life.

My family was, and is, eternally grateful. At the time, we pulled together and donated a new AED machine to south county as an extra thank you, and to put another life-saving piece of gear in their rigs for the community.

Now, we’re pulling together to support William Bailey for Deschutes County Sheriff.

Bend Bulletin, letter to the editor

December 30, 2023

Submitted by Chad Russell