WALLACE — The Shoshone County Sheriff’s Office made two significant announcements late last week. 

On Friday, Sheriff Willie Eddy announced the hiring of Travis Skinner as the county’s new undersheriff. Skinner, who lives in Mullan, brings more than 20 years of law enforcement experience, most recently with the Unified Police Department of Greater Salt Lake in Utah. 

“Mr. Skinner was one of the applicants for the Courthouse Security position,” Eddy said. “After the Shoshone County Clerk, Lori Osterberg, filled that position, she shared his application with me."

Skinner was one of two candidates interviewed for the role, along with current SCSO Capt. Seth Green. Commissioner Dave Dose sat in on Green’s interview, while Commissioner Jeff Zimmerman attended Skinner’s. Eddy noted that neither commissioner offered an opinion on the interviews. 

Skinner’s career includes service as a jail deputy, patrol officer, motor squad member, SWAT team member, and Canyon Patrol/Search and Rescue officer. He also handled prisoner transportation and extradition. For the past seven years, he served as a sergeant with UPD, supervising more than 70 members in the Canyon Patrol/Search and Rescue unit. 

His certifications include EMT and outdoor emergency care, detention and police officer training, Intoxilyzer operation, swift water rescue and avalanche safety at Level 3.  

Skinner will be sworn in as Shoshone County undersheriff Jan. 2. 

On Saturday, Eddy said he is exploring ways to reduce jail costs while maintaining public safety and minimizing staff liability. He has asked Shoshone County Prosecutor Ben Allen to release nonviolent inmates on lesser charges to ease the jail population and reduce strain on staff. The jail will not transfer local inmates to other facilities at this time. 

“These population management efforts are being conducted without incurring additional costs to Shoshone County,” Eddy said. 

For state-held inmates, Eddy is working to move them to other facilities. The decision stems from rising housing costs, staffing and administrative shortages, and training needs. Idaho currently reimburses jails $75 per day per inmate, while housing costs average $100 per day.

“These measures are short-term and proactive, intended to ensure the jail continues to operate safely, securely, and in compliance with Idaho Jail Standards,” Eddy said. “Training is being increased and administered as necessary to ensure staff members are properly prepared to maintain a safe environment and provide appropriate care to inmates."