Sheriff James Burgett
DPSST 43731
James Burgett was sworn in as the 17th Sheriff of Sherman County on January 2nd, 2025.
After graduating high school, James served in the United States Army from 1999 to 2003. Upon returning to Oregon, he became a reserve officer for the John Day Police Department and also worked part-time at the Grant County Jail. In October 2003, he was sworn in by Sheriff Glenn Palmer as a patrol deputy with the Grant County Sheriff’s Office.
At the time, GCSO consisted of the Sheriff, Undersheriff, and three patrol deputies responsible for covering approximately 4,500 square miles. During his time there, James gained extensive experience in search and rescue, criminal investigations, the regional tactical team, and the Sheriff’s Posse. He later served as a Field Training Officer (FTO), firearms instructor, and coordinator of the reserve deputy program. Outside of his professional duties, he was an ODFW hunter education instructor and an NRA firearms safety instructor.
In 2013, James joined the Sherman County Sheriff’s Office under Sheriff Brad Lohrey. He continued his service as a patrol deputy, FTO, firearms instructor, and regional tactical team member. He also became a seasonal marine deputy and a certified drone operator. In 2018, he was promoted to Undersheriff, and in 2020, he was appointed team commander of the regional tactical team, NORTAC.
In 2024, Sheriff Lohrey announced his retirement, concluding a distinguished 31-year law enforcement career, including 24 years as Sherman County Sheriff. James ran unopposed in the election and was elected that November.
As Sheriff, James Burgett is committed to fostering a professional culture among his deputies—one that emphasizes proper equipment, high-quality training, physical fitness, healthy living, and making family a priority.
“These deputies put their lives on the line every day. They take care of us—it’s my duty to take care of them.”
Sheriff James Burgett
Sgt. Kyle Pfeifer
DPSST 57558
In 2013, Sgt. Kyle Pfeifer moved to Sherman County and began teaching 7th–12th grade Social Studies at Sherman County School. During his time as a teacher, he also served as an assistant football coach and the head coach of track and field.
In July 2017, Sgt. Pfeifer transitioned from teaching to law enforcement, joining the Sherman County Sheriff's Office as a Deputy. Over the years, he has taken on various roles, including Field Training Officer, Use of Force Instructor, Firearms Instructor, and Concealed Handgun License (CHL) class instructor. He also serves on NORTAC as the Sniper Team section leader. In 2024, he was promoted to Sergeant and attended the Oregon State Sheriff's Association Command College.
"I am grateful to be able to serve the citizens of Sherman County."
Sgt. Kyle Pfeifer
Deputy Sol Jacobsen
DPSST 54284
Deputy Sol Jacobsen grew up in Sherman County near Wasco, where his family has lived for over 139 years. With a deep connection to the area, Deputy Jacobsen has always appreciated the outdoor opportunities the region offers. He began his career with the Sherman County Sheriff's Office in 2014 and is currently serving as Senior Deputy. Over his 11 years of service, his passion for the community has focused on improving traffic safety. Having witnessed the devastating effects of dangerous driving, Deputy Jacobsen is committed to protecting both the local community and those passing through the area.
Deputy Sol Jacobsen
Deputy Kyle Burnett
DPSST 53570
Deputy Kyle Burnett was born and raised here in Sherman County. After graduating high school, he joined the United States Army, where he served as a Military Police soldier for five years. During his service, Deputy Burnett spent three years in field operations and patrol at Joint Base Lewis-McChord in Washington. In the final two years of his military career, he was assigned to the drug enforcement team, working closely with local law enforcement agencies to investigate drug-related crimes.
After his honorable discharge, Deputy Burnett returned home to continue serving his community. In March 2022, he was sworn in as a deputy with the Sherman County Sheriff's Office.
"I am honored to be back, serving the community that I am proud to call home."
Deputy Kyle Burnett
Deputy Cody Callahan
DPSST 63681
Deputy Cody Callahan was born and raised in southern Oregon. He began his career with the Sherman County Sheriff's Office on January 4th, 2023. In addition to his role as a deputy, Callahan serves in the Oregon Army National Guard as an Army medic, bringing over 15 years of experience. He has completed three tours overseas and spent two years serving as an analyst on a drug task force in southern Oregon through the military.
Deputy Callahan is also an Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (AEMT) with 8 years of experience in emergency departments and 15 years of field medicine. He is a certified instructor in CPR, Stop the Bleed, Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC)/Tactical Emergency Casualty Care (TECC), and patrol rifle. Deputy Callahan is a member of valuable member of NORTAC, filling multiple roles.
"I am excited to live with and serve the community of Sherman County alongside my wife and boys."