County Sheriff

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Sheriff Contact

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Emergency:  911
Non-emergency:

(541) 247-3242
(800) 543-8471
94235 Moore Street, Suite 311 (Mailing)
29808 Colvin Street (Physical)
Gold Beach, Oregon  97444

 
 
Sheriff John Ward


John Ward was appointed Sheriff by the Curry County Board of Commissioners on August 26, 2014 as the new Sheriff effective October 1, 2014, due to the resignation of the pervious Sheriff. Sheriff John Ward has held several law enforcement certificates including the Basic, Intermediate, Advanced, Supervisory, Management and Executive Certificate awarded by the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training. 

Currently, Sheriff Ward has worked for the Curry County Sheriff's Office for thirty-one years, the last eight of which as Sheriff. Sheriff Ward has served as a Patrol Deputy, Detective, Patrol Sergeant and Lieutenant since he was hired in November 1990. In 2005, Sheriff Ward was assigned as the Search & Rescue Coordinator and was a member of SARAC (Search & Rescue Advisory Council), a member of CORSAR (California Oregon Regional Search & Rescue), and a member of the OSSA Enforcement Command Council. In 2013, as a Patrol Lieutenant & 2nd in command, Sheriff Ward was recognized as the Search & Rescue Coordinator of the Year. During his career, Sheriff Ward has been recognized by the Oregon State Marine Boat and OSSA for several lifesaving awards. 

Sheriff Ward was born and raised in Gold Beach, joined the US Navy out of high school in 1975, and raised his family in Gold Beach. Prior to joining the Curry County Sheriff's Office, Sheriff Ward worked in the woods with logging crews and worked for seven years in a work activity center with developmental adults teaching life and work skills. Sheriff Ward volunteered as the Gold Beach High School's golf coach while his son and daughter attended school.

When I went to work for the Curry County Sheriff's Office, I never imagined I would be in the postion today as the Sheriff of Curry County. It has been one of the hardest jobs, but also, one of the most rewarding jobs I have ever been in. I know the challenges we face and the ever-changing world of law enforcement and public safety that we live in. 

I have worked for five different Sheriff's during my career here at the Curry County Sheriff's Office and I learned something from each of them that prepared me for the role of Sheriff. Public Safety has always been my number one priority along with the safety and growth of all the men and women who work for the Curry County Sheriff's Office. I never demand respect, if you are sincere, honest and sympathetic, you will earn the respect the position calls for and you will be successful.