Walla Walla County Sheriff Mark Crider announces retirement at end of term

By Dan Thesman on Tuesday, May 19th, 2026 in Columbia Basin News Columbia Basin Top Stories

WALLA WALLA — Walla Walla County Sheriff Mark Crider announced Monday that he will retire at the conclusion of his current term this December, wrapping up eight years leading the agency.

Crider cited recent health challenges, including open-heart surgery in 2023, the passing of his father, and reaching Medicare eligibility this year as primary factors in his decision to step away from law enforcement.

In a farewell letter to residents, Crider expressed pride in working alongside local deputies and regional public safety partners, emphasizing the department’s ongoing dedication to training, accountability, and its core mission of protecting public rights and safety.

Crider stated he holds absolute confidence that the next administration will maintain the agency’s community ideals and proportional approach to law enforcement.

File photo of Sheriff Crider