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

On Friday, Sheriff Willie Eddy announced the hiring of Travis Skinner as the county’s new undersheriff. Skinner, who now 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. After reviewing the application, I set an interview time with Skinner, myself, and Commissioner (Jeff) Zimmerman.” 

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 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. He has completed leadership, law enforcement management, and multi-agency cooperation academies. Skinner is proficient in firearms and radio communications and certified in conflict de-escalation, arrest control tactics, and non-lethal use of force. He also holds first aid and CPR certifications and is recognized for strong communication, organizational, and time management skills. 

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

Jail rumors addressed 

On Saturday evening, Eddy responded to rumors that county leaders were considering a “soft closure” of the Shoshone County jail. He confirmed that discussions about jail operations have taken place but stressed the facility will not close. 

The rumors of potential closure began swirling following a meeting between Eddy and the Shoshone County Commissioners held in executive session last week. 

Eddy said he is exploring ways to reduce costs while maintaining public safety and minimizing liability for staff. 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, a $25 daily loss per state inmate. 

“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. The safety of jail staff, inmates, and the community remains the Sheriff’s Office’s highest priority.”