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Date: August 17, 2026
Board names Lieutenant Ken Dickinson as Kitsap County Interim Sheriff pending completion of background checks
(Port Orchard, WA) -The Kitsap County Board of Commissioners has named Lieutenant Ken Dickinson as the Interim Sheriff, pending successful completion of state-mandated background checks. The Board intends to swear in Dickinson at the August 24 Regular Board Meeting, beginning at 10 a.m.
Former Sheriff John Gese resigned from his position effective June 29, 2026. The process for filling a vacant partisan office is directed by the Washington State Constitution Article II, Section 15. Dickinson will serve until certification of the November 2026 general election when voters elect the next Kitsap County Sheriff.
Board Chair Oran Root stated, “Our highest priority is the safety and well-being of our residents. The Board’s role is to ensure the County continues to operate responsibly, transparently, effectively, and with absolute confidence in our public safety mission during this interim period. This decision was guided by what we believe is in the best interest of the County and the residents we serve. We selected Lieutenant Dickinson because we are confident that he offers steady, responsible leadership during an especially important period for our organization.
“At the same time, we have great confidence in the other two candidates, current employees Chief Brandon Myers (Patrol) and Chief Jeff Menge (Detectives), and are honored that they will continue serving in their important leadership roles. Their experience, professionalism, and commitment to public service will remain invaluable as we work together to guide the organization through the months ahead.
“With this leadership team in place, we are fortunate to have deep institutional knowledge, passion for the well-being of all Sheriff's Office staff, and especially our deputies who put their lives on the line each and every day. They all have strong community relationships and the respect of their colleagues. With significant budget planning and other critical priorities on the horizon, maintaining this stable leadership team ensures our community's safety remains uninterrupted and allows the County to remain focused on the hard work before us without unnecessary disruption."
Lieutenant Dickinson served the Kitsap County Sheriff's Office for more than 31 years, before retiring in May 2025. During Dickinson’s tenure, he served as a Patrol Deputy, Traffic Investigation Deputy, Patrol Sargeant, Civil and Support Services Sergeant, Traffic Sergeant, and ultimately the Civil and Support Services Lieutenant. He also served in collateral roles as a Field Training Officer, Marine Services Unit Deputy, Sergeant, and Public Information Officer.
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