Thurston County voters will soon decide whether to give Sheriff Derek Sanders a second term as he officially enters the race for re-election in the upcoming November election. His campaign highlights a mix of nonpartisan leadership, staffing improvements, and strong community support — while also facing a challenge from one of his own detectives.
Sheriff Derek Sanders Announces Re-election Bid
Sheriff Derek Sanders confirmed on Facebook that he has filed to run for re-election in 2026, seeking a second four-year term starting in 2027. He emphasized that he will continue as a nonpartisan independent, saying, “Impartiality remains central to effective law enforcement.”
The Thurston County Sheriff’s Office oversees policing in unincorporated parts of the county and operates a jail in Tumwater. The office has an annual budget of about $67 million.
Strong Local Support and Endorsements
Sanders’ campaign boasts endorsements from every mayor in Thurston County, as well as county commissioners Carolina Mejia, Tye Menser, and Wayne Fournier. His campaign underlines the importance of staying nonpartisan, believing that neutrality strengthens community trust and accountability in law enforcement.
Challenged by Detective Kevin Burton-Crow
About two weeks before Sanders announced his re-election bid, Special Victims Detective Kevin Burton-Crow launched his own campaign for sheriff. A retired U.S. Army Sergeant First Class, Burton-Crow is running as a Democrat.
He explained that while he identifies with Democratic values, the sheriff’s role should go beyond party politics. “Being sheriff is a serious and important job,” he said. “We should do more than just react to incidents. By working together with the community, we can build trust and keep everyone safe.”
As of February 6, Burton-Crow has raised $18,325 in campaign funds, according to the Washington State Public Disclosure Commission. Sanders has not reported any contributions yet, but recently held a “day zero” fundraiser, which suggests donations may soon start coming in.
Improvements Under Sanders’ Leadership
Since becoming sheriff in 2023, Sanders has focused heavily on strengthening the Sheriff’s Office. One of his major accomplishments was supporting a public safety sales tax approved by voters. The added revenue helped boost hiring and resources.
According to Sanders’ campaign, the number of patrol deputies grew from 33 to 55, and the number of detectives increased from 8 to 18 in just one year.
Modernising Equipment and Expanding Facilities
Sanders’ tenure has also brought significant updates in technology and infrastructure. His office rolled out body-worn cameras, new pursuit alternatives like grappler nets and GPS trackers, and invested in upgraded equipment and training.
One of the biggest changes is the department’s upcoming move into a new facility. The county purchased a 56,000-square-foot building near Tumwater High School and I-5 for $14.3 million. The Sheriff’s Office expects to move in by spring.
A Team Effort for Public Safety
Sanders credits teamwork for the department’s progress. “These improvements didn’t happen because of one person,” he said. “They happened because Sheriff’s Office employees, county leadership and community members worked together with a shared commitment to public safety.”
As the race moves forward, voters in Thurston County will weigh leadership experience, values, and future plans when deciding who should lead the Sheriff’s Office for the next term.
