Clearwater County Sheriff will not seek re-election
January 20, 2026
Serving as your Clearwater County Sheriff for the past 11 years has been a tremendous honor. I am deeply grateful for the trust and support of this county. Together, we have achieved meaningful improvements and navigated significant challenges.
After careful personal reflection and thoughtful discussions with my family, I have decided not to seek re-election for a fourth term as your Clearwater County Sheriff this fall. I will continue to serve the citizens of Clearwater County with the same commitment and integrity until my term concludes in January 2027.
This decision has not been easy. I have dedicated the past 34 years to serving the people of Clearwater County, beginning as a part-time officer with the Clearbrook Police Department, then serving as a K9 officer and Police Chief in Bagley, and ultimately as Sheriff of Clearwater County. In addition, I found great joy in being a DARE Officer for 20 years.
It has been a remarkable journey, full of challenges, growth, and countless blessings, but all chapters must eventually come to a close. While no time is ever perfect, I have relied on my faith and gentle signs from God guiding me and confirming that this is the right moment to step back and turn the page. I am at peace with this decision and look forward to what lies ahead.
I was fortunate to follow outstanding sheriffs and build upon a strong foundation. During my tenure, we have implemented numerous upgrades and improvements that have enhanced efficiency, transparency, officer safety, communication, and the successful prosecution of criminal cases, while strengthening the overall safety and security of our citizens.
Throughout my career in law enforcement, I have consistently held myself to a higher standard. Leading with compassion, understanding, and empathy for our fellow citizens has always been central to my approach, and I hope those principles define the legacy I leave behind. While it is not possible to satisfy everyone in law enforcement, it is always possible—and essential—to treat every person with respect and dignity.
I would like to extend my gratitude to all the outstanding individuals I had the honor of working alongside during my career. Some of those are no longer with us, but each person made a lasting impact on me, not only professionally but personally as well. I will forever value the memories we shared and wish continued success and happiness to those I leave behind as I begin the next chapter of my life.
After a long career in public service, I am excited to spend more time with my family. In this line of work, families often receive what is left over after everything has been given to serving others. I am deeply grateful to my wife, who has stood by my side throughout this journey—we will be celebrating our 30th wedding anniversary this fall—and to my grown children, who have known nothing different, having grown up in a law enforcement household. They understood from an early age what it meant when duty called—whether missing a family dinner or attending events with only their mom—and they always showed remarkable respect, empathy, and understanding that has made me proud.
I also want to thank my parents for instilling in me the strong morals and ethics that have guided my life and career. Who would have thought your little boy growing up on the family farm would one day become a Sheriff?
Finally, I want to thank everyone who has supported me throughout my career. Your encouragement and trust made it possible for me to accomplish all that I have. It has been the honor of a lifetime serving as your Sheriff, and I will be forever grateful. God bless you all.
Respectfully yours,
Sheriff Darin Halverson