Grant Co. Sheriff McKinley to be honored as American Legion of Oregon’s Law Officer of the Year
By Logan Bagett on Tuesday, January 20th, 2026 in Eastern/Southeast Oregon News More Top Stories
GRANT COUNTY – Spoiler alert: Grant County Sheriff Todd McKinley will be getting statewide recognition later this year. The American Legion of Oregon has announced that Sheriff McKinley will be honored as their 2026 Law Officer of the Year. Adjutant and Immediate Past Department Commander S. Flynn Phillips has confirmed this with our newsroom. Past Commander Phillips said comments from Grant County Judge Jim Hamsher influenced their decision in selecting Sheriff McKinley.
Judge Hamsher, in his recommendation letter to the American Legion, stated, “Having observed Sheriff McKinley’s dedication to the citizens of Grant County, it is clear that he embodies the highest ideals of both law enforcement and community leadership.”
Judge Hamsher commended the Sheriff’s “boots-on the-ground” approach to leadership by writing, “He leads not from a desk, but from the front lines, ensuring that his deputies are well-trained, supported, and held to the highest ethical standards. His ability to navigate the complex challenges of rural law enforcement with limited resources is a testament to his ingenuity and resolve.”
In his conclusion, Judge Hamsher stated, “Sheriff Todd McKinley is a credit to the uniform and a model of the American spirit. His bravery, character, and tireless work ethic make him an ideal candidate for this honor.”
According to American Legion District 10 Past Commander Jim Jerome, our Sheriff was one of three finalists in the state. The Sheriff is slated to receive the award at this year’s Department of Oregon American Legion Banquet to be held in Lincoln City, Oregon in June.
