WALLACE — Shoshone County Sheriff Will Eddy says his first weeks in office have been “interesting” as he works to address budget concerns, staffing needs and community safety. 

Eddy, a retired Pinehurst police officer, was appointed sheriff last month following the sudden resignation of former Sheriff Holly Lindsey, who stepped down in Oct. after a reported hit-and-run accident that remains under investigation. In the weeks that followed, SCSO jail captain Eli Lopez and Undersheriff Lance Stutzke also resigned. 

Eddy said his early days have focused on learning the department’s budget, meeting with the county clerk and limiting spending within the sheriff’s office. He is also working with the detention sergeant to address concerns at the jail. 

The sheriff has already implemented changes in the department’s focus, including shifting resources from Interstate 90 to lesser-patrolled areas. 

“We have a grant for one deputy to patrol the freeway,” Eddy said. “I hope that people are noticing a change and see deputies constantly patrolling the county roads and gulches.” 

Budget constraints remain the biggest challenge. Over the summer, the SCSO budget was among the hottest topics in the county. Revenue shortfalls required commissioners to tighten spending, resulting in steep cuts at the sheriff’s office. Voters later rejected a $2 million override levy designed to make up the shortfall. 

The loss of funding and failed levy have the department looking at roughly $1 million in cuts, which were expected to affect staffing, training and equipment. 

“I am looking into ways to retain current employees while working within the current budget, as I do not want to put an extra burden on the taxpayers,” Eddy said. 

To strengthen resources, Eddy has reached out to the Idaho State Police and neighboring law enforcement agencies to establish partnerships. He also connected with the Silver Valley Volunteer Search and Rescue Group, which he called “very important, especially this time of year.” 

Eddy is still working to find his new undersheriff and hopes to have someone chosen soon. 

“I am still conducting interviews for undersheriff at this time,” he said. “There are more interviews next week and I hope to have an undersheriff chosen by then.” 

Eddy emphasized his commitment to transparency and community trust, which were among his biggest concerns when he interviewed with the county commissioners for the position.  

“I am committed to leading the sheriff’s office with honesty, transparency and accountability,” he said. “My door is always open. Please contact me with any questions or concerns.”