from Sheriff Rob Nou

On Monday, January 7, 2013 Bruce Distler was appointed Undersheriff. This appointment capped a 5 month search and selection process that brought in over 25 applicants from 5 states.

The Undersheriff is the second in command at the Sheriff’s Office, and is an executive management position.

Bruce Distler is a nearly 20 year law enforcement veteran officer, serving San Juan County since May, 2006. Prior to beginning his law enforcement career, he served 22 years with the U.S. Air Force, retiring as a Master Sergeant in Aeromedical Evacuation. He has a Masters degree in Management-Criminal Justice from Colorado Technical University.

In his law enforcement career, Distler has worked assignments in both small towns and rural settings. He has served as a Field Training Officer, School Resource Officer, and Marine Law Enforcement Officer. Distler is a Drug Recognition Expert, specially trained to determine if people are under the influence of drugs other than alcohol.

Bruce and his wife Bonni are residents of Orcas Island.