August 25, 2026 3:30 a.m. 

A few weeks ago, the Oregon State Sheriffs’ Association learned the Curry County Board of Commissioners had completed an investigation into misconduct by Sheriff John Ward involving donations from a local non-profit organization. That investigation concluded Ward had been untruthful and had taken foundation donations for his own personal use.

The release said the OSSA Executive Committee met after learning of the investigation and decided the board of directors should determine whether to suspend or remove Sheriff Ward from his OSSA board position. Ward was told the matter would be considered at a special meeting on August 24th and that he could address the board before a decision was made. He did not attend.

On August 24th, the OSSA board met and considered the issue. During the meeting, a motion was made to permanently expel Sheriff Ward from serving as an OSSA Director. The motion passed unanimously, with 28 Oregon sheriffs voting on the issue. Sheriff Ward was immediately expelled from the OSSA Board of Directors and will have no further involvement in the operation of OSSA.