EUGENE, Ore. – Lane County Sheriff Cliff Harrold has announced his retirement after a distinguished 35-year career with the Lane County Sheriff’s Office. His retirement, effective May 16, 2025, marks the end of a long and dedicated career in law enforcement, where Harrold has served in a variety of roles, from a cadet to sheriff.
Harrold’s journey in law enforcement began in the early 1990s when he joined the Sheriff’s Office Explorer Post and briefly worked as a dispatcher for the Cottage Grove Police Department. In 1995, he became a full-time deputy, quickly rising through the ranks. Over the years, Harrold served in multiple capacities, including within the Corrections Division, Marine Patrol, and the SWAT team. His versatility and commitment to public service earned him respect among his colleagues and the community.
In 2019, Harrold was appointed as Lane County Sheriff and was elected to the position in 2020. He was re-elected for a second term in 2024. Throughout his tenure, Harrold became known for his steady leadership and focus on modernizing the department, particularly in improving the local jail system. Under his leadership, the Sheriff’s Office gained recognition for its efforts to make Lane County a safer place for its residents.
In a letter addressed to the community, Harrold expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve and reflected on his decision to retire. “It is with much thought and consideration that I have decided to retire from the Lane County Sheriff’s Office effective May 16. After 35 years, I am ready to step back and contemplate what the future looks like for myself and my family,” he wrote. “It has been an honor to work with all the incredible men and women who make up the Lane County Sheriff’s Office. Their dedication to serving our community is unparalleled, and I could not have asked to serve alongside better people.”
Harrold’s leadership and contributions were praised by several local officials, including Lane County District Attorney Chris Parosa. “Sheriff Harrold’s sound and steady leadership has made our community safer, modernized our local jail, and improved the lives of countless Lane County residents,” Parosa said.
As Harrold steps down, Chief Deputy Carl Wilkerson will temporarily assume the role of Sheriff until Lane County Commissioners determine the process for appointing a new sheriff. The commissioners are expected to discuss the appointment at their upcoming meeting on May 6.
Looking ahead, Harrold will take on a new role as the Manager of Security and Public Safety for PeaceHealth Oregon Network. In this capacity, he will oversee the safety and security of staff and patients across PeaceHealth’s medical facilities. The healthcare network expressed confidence in Harrold’s ability to contribute to their mission of ensuring a safe environment for both staff and patients. Alicia Beymer, Chief Administrative Officer for Sacred Heart Medical Center at RiverBend, stated, “Cliff brings the exact blend of experience we need in this role. His experience in law enforcement and his existing connections with local agencies will prove invaluable as we look to strengthen our culture of safety.”
As Harrold transitions into this new chapter of his career, his legacy in Lane County law enforcement will undoubtedly endure, leaving behind a well-respected department and a safer community.
