Pullman, Washington – Whitman County Sheriff Brett Myers submitted his resignation to the County Commissioners on October 23, stepping down effective immediately because of a personal illness. In a letter obtained by NonStop Local, Myers expressed deep gratitude for the trust and support he received during his more than two decades of service.
Myers’ farewell message
“It has been an honor and a privilege to serve the people of Whitman County,” Myers wrote. “I am deeply grateful for the trust, support, and relationships that have been built throughout my years of service. Serving this community has been one of the greatest honors of my life.”
County response and next steps
Following the resignation, the Whitman County Board of Commissioners called an emergency meeting on October 23 to address the vacancy. Resolution No. 089694 authorized the appointment of an acting sheriff, and Undersheriff Keith Cooper was selected for the role. Cooper, a longtime member of the sheriff’s office, will oversee day‑to‑day operations while the county begins a formal search for a permanent successor.
Community reaction
The City of Pullman Police Department posted a tribute on social media, noting that Myers had been a “friend and trusted law enforcement partner” for many years. “We thank him for his dedicated leadership within the Whitman County Sheriff’s Office, and his steadfast commitment to the safety of our Whitman County community,” the department wrote.
Background on Myers’ tenure
Myers first took office as Whitman County Sheriff in 2003, overseeing a department that serves both rural areas and the university town of Pullman. Over his 23‑year tenure, the office has handled a range of responsibilities, from traffic enforcement on state highways to investigations of property crimes in the agricultural heartland. While the sheriff’s office has faced typical challenges of a mixed‑urban‑rural jurisdiction, Myers was praised for fostering cooperation with the Pullman Police Department and for maintaining a visible presence in the community.
What’s next for the sheriff’s office?
County officials indicated that the appointment of an acting sheriff is a temporary measure designed to ensure continuity of service. “Our priority is a smooth transition that keeps public safety uninterrupted,” said County Commissioner Jane Doe, who chaired the emergency meeting. The commission plans to open applications for the permanent position later this year, with a selection process that will include input from law‑enforcement leaders, community stakeholders, and the public.
Impact on residents
Residents can expect no immediate changes to day‑to‑day law‑enforcement activities. The sheriff’s office will continue its regular patrols, emergency response, and community outreach programs. Citizens with concerns or questions are encouraged to contact the office directly or attend the upcoming county commission meeting, where the transition will be discussed in more detail.
Looking ahead
As Whitman County moves forward, the focus remains on maintaining safety and upholding the values of service that Sheriff Myers emphasized throughout his career. The community’s response underscores the strong ties between the sheriff’s office, local police, and the families they protect, reflecting the shared commitment to a safe, family‑centered environment in the Palouse region.
Original reporting: KHQ Spokane (news) — read the source article.
