2024 WCSO Annual Report - Report - Page 16
14 | WCSOOregon.org
CAPRICE MASSEY MAKES HISTORY AS
WASHINGTON COUNTY’S FIRST FEMALE SHERIFF
Washington County, Oregon, home to the state’s first
earning the trust and respect of her colleagues and
sheriff’s office and rich with over 181 years of pioneer
the community.
legacy, marked a historic milestone in 2024. In May,
voters elected Caprice Massey as the 33rd Sheriff of
Sheriff Massey’s leadership emphasizes transparency,
Washington County, making her the first female sheriff
accountability, and community engagement. Her
in the county’s history.
focus includes bolstering retention and recruitment,
fostering partnerships with community organizations,
Sheriff Massey officially took office on January 7, 2025,
and being a responsible steward of public resources.
in a ceremony led by Presiding Judge Rebecca Guptill,
She also prioritizes addressing concerns for public
solidifying her place in the county’s ongoing narrative
safety while ensuring the Sheriff’s Office evolves to
of progress and leadership.
meet the needs of the county’s diverse and growing
population.
Sheriff Massey’s journey to this role involves service,
resilience, and an unwavering commitment to public
Washington County’s history is steeped in the
safety. As a native Oregonian who grew up in Eugene,
pioneering spirit of innovation and progress, and
her dedication to community was shaped early.
Sheriff Massey’s election represents a continuation of
She began her career of service in the United States
that legacy. The election builds on the Sheriff’s Office’s
Navy, having served for nine years. As a Veteran, she
foundation of leadership and services while bringing
continued her service to her community at the Norfolk
new perspectives to the role and honoring the values
Sheriff’s office in Norfolk, Virginia, before joining the
that have guided the office for nearly two centuries.
Washington County Sheriff’s Office in 2004. Over the
past two decades, she has risen through the ranks,
We honor our past, celebrate our present, and look
forward to the future.
I am truly honored to serve the Washington County community as its 33rd Sheriff
alongside the hundreds of dedicated professionals of this office,” Sheriff Massey
shared. “While we have accomplished much, much must be done. Together, we will
continue our mission to keep Washington County the safest urban county in Oregon.
