Don't Believe Everything You Hear...

Linn County Does Have an Actual Sheriff - No, there isn't an "Acting Sheriff"

We have been receiving calls from concerned citizens stating an individual is making claims that Linn County does not have a Sheriff and a certain staff member is the "Acting Sheriff."

This information is false. The Linn County Sheriff's Office cannot operate and would not hold any authority without a Sheriff in place who has taken the Oath of Office and has been sworn in by the Linn County Clerk.

Sheriff Carrie Melte was appointed by the Linn County Commission when the former Sheriff left office before the end of his term. She took the Oath of Office and was sworn in with the official title of Interim Sheriff on February 27, 2024.

Once Sheriff Melte took the Oath of Office and was sworn in, she accepted the position of Sheriff of Linn County and assumed all powers and responsibilities that came with that title.

The term "Interim" is merely used due to the fact she came into office prior to the end of the current 4-year term. It does not negate any responsibilities or authority due to the title or the office. It also does not mean the same thing as "Acting Sheriff." A staff member can only be "Acting Sheriff" if there is a Sheriff in office and the person that is "Acting" is only assuming the Sheriff's responsibilities for a short term while they are away. Such as, if the Sheriff goes out of state for a week, etc. At this time, no staff member has been named "Acting Sheriff" as Sheriff Melte is in county.

We want to address this situation so that the citizens of Linn County know the truth and do not lose faith in our office due to possibly hearing this false rumor. Please feel free to share this information with others.

As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please contact our office.