WALLACE — The Shoshone County commissioners will meet next week to potentially decide who will be appointed as the next sheriff following Holly Lindsey’s resignation last month. 

Last week, the Shoshone County Democratic Committee held a forum to hear from eight individuals interested in the position. After a brief question-and-answer period, the committee voted to determine the three candidates it would submit to the commissioners for consideration. 

The party ultimately selected Spike Angle, Will Eddy, and Chris Rice. 

The commissioners are hoping for a smooth process, but have requested that each candidate submit a résumé by Friday for review. They plan to make a decision next week. 

“We will be taking into consideration each candidate's background in law enforcement,” Commissioner Jeff Zimmerman said. “The interview process will give the full board a chance to learn about the candidates and ask questions. We will then deliberate and meet Tuesday, where we will discuss and make the final decision on the new interim sheriff. To satisfy the open meeting law, the BOCC must learn about each candidate, ask candidates questions, and discuss the candidates as a board in a public meeting.” 

Lance Stutzke has been serving as interim sheriff since Oct. 22 and was among those who requested to be considered for the appointment. Commissioner Dave Dose offered his support for Stutzke and believes he will do a good job transitioning in the new administration. 

“I feel the sheriff's office has good leadership in place now for supporting this upcoming transition,” Dose said. “By law, we have just two weeks to make a choice, and I want to use that time well to make a good choice. I have been putting a lot of thought into it already.” 

The Democratic Committee submitted its list to the commissioners on Nov. 4, which began a 15-day window for their selection. If the commissioners are unable to choose, the decision reverts to the committee for another 15-day period. 

SPIKE ANGLE 

Full name and age  

Charles “Spike” Angle, 71   

Marital status/family 

I am widowed, have 5 children, and 13 grandchildren.   

Education 

Wallace High School graduate, then attended the Idaho Post Academy and continued my education in law enforcement throughout my career.   

Political background (of any kind)  

Osburn City Council. I have been involved in many civic groups, as well as many specialized law enforcement task forces.   

Experience in law enforcement  

I started my career as a reserve officer for the City of Wallace, then went to the Shoshone County Sheriff’s Office, and I received the rank of Captain. I was then appointed as Chief of Police for the City of Osburn. The last few years I was a reserve officer for the Shoshone County Sheriff's Office.   

What sets you apart from the other candidates? 

I believe what sets me apart from the other candidates is my four decades of experience. In working with many administrations, I have learned from all of them. I can use all their knowledge that I have learned, and it would be beneficial to the citizens of Shoshone County.   

Do you plan on seeking re-election next year? 

I will consider running for re-election if the citizens feel I am fulfilling their needs.   

WILLIAM EDDY 

Full name and age  

William Eddy, 59  

Marital status/family  

Married to Karey (Eddy), we reside in the City of Osburn. We have three sons, three grandchildren.  

Political background (of any kind)  

I have never run for office of any kind.  

Experience in law enforcement 

I began my career in law enforcement 27 years ago, starting as a reserve deputy with Bonner County Sheriff’s Office, then serving as a reserve officer for Sandpoint and Spirit Lake PD, where I later became full-time. I worked as a Patrol Deputy for Boundary County Sheriff’s Department, then as a Patrol Sergeant for Pinehurst PD (2013–2016). I graduated from Idaho POST Level 1 Reserve and Basic Patrol Academies, completing 1,120 training hours in areas like DUI enforcement, interdiction, and civil liabilities, continually advancing my knowledge.  

What sets you apart from the other candidates?  

As Sheriff, I will bring fresh ideas and a fiscally conservative approach. The current department is not financially sustainable, so I will work with the BOCC and County Clerk to create a joint strategy for restructuring and efficiency while staying within budget. My experience across North Idaho law enforcement has given me a broad perspective, and I’ve learned from great mentors while gaining management experience. County roads will be consistently patrolled, and no services will be cut while actively seeking new grants. Transparency and public trust are priorities—I welcome scrutiny of our budget and spending. I will explore volunteer programs like Citizens Patrol and River Patrol, and collaborate with Search and Rescue and other local groups. Integrity, accountability, honesty, and respect will guide the department as I uphold my oath and protect your constitutional rights.  

Do you plan on seeking re-election next year?  

Yes, if the citizens of Shoshone County feel that I am serving them well, I would run for Sheriff in this coming May's election. 

ROBERT ‘CHRIS’ RICE 

Full name and age  

Robert "Chris" Rice, 52 

Marital status/family  

Wife, Michelle; four daughters, two sons, and nine grandchildren. 

Education 

A.A.S. Degree in Law Enforcement from North Idaho College; Graduate of Future Dealers, Chrysler Academy, Auburn Hills, MI. 

Political background 

No prior political experience, registered Independent 

Experience in law enforcement  

I have served in multiple law enforcement roles across North Idaho. At the Kellogg Police Department, I worked as a Patrol Officer. With the Shoshone County Sheriff’s Department, I served as a Patrol Deputy and was part of the S.W.A.T. Tactical Team. At Post Falls Police Department, I worked as a Patrol Officer, Motorcycle Officer (Motors), and was a member of the S.W.A.T. Tactical Team. I also served as the School Resource Officer at Post Falls High School. I am a U.S. Army and Army Reserve veteran, serving from March 23, 1990, to March 23, 1998, as a Combat Engineer. I achieved the rank of E-4 Specialist and received an Honorable Discharge. 

What sets you apart from the other candidates? 

I have extensive business and leadership experience, including supervising over 70 employees. My responsibilities included identifying and addressing issues in expenses, productivity, recruitment, and workplace culture. I successfully implemented and executed action plans to resolve these challenges, ensuring operational efficiency and team growth. 

Do you plan on seeking re-election next year?  

Yes, I would seek re-election next year and the election after that. 

    Angle
  

    Eddy
  

    Rice