The Kitsap County Board of Commissioners has named Lieutenant Ken Dickinson as interim sheriff, pending successful completion of state-mandated background checks. He is scheduled to be sworn in at the August 24 Board meeting.
The interim appointment follows the resignation of Sheriff John Gese on June 29, 2026. Under Washington State's constitution, the county board fills vacancies in elected offices until the next general election. Dickinson will serve in the interim role until voters elect a new sheriff in November 2026.
Dickinson served the Kitsap County Sheriff's Office for more than 31 years in various roles including patrol deputy, sergeant, and lieutenant, before retiring in May 2025.
Board Chair Oran Root said the board selected Dickinson "because we are confident that he offers steady, responsible leadership during an especially important period for our organization."