WALLACE — Former interim Sheriff Lance Stutzke resigned from the Shoshone County Sheriff’s Office on Thursday, the same day William Eddy was sworn in as the county’s new sheriff. 

In his resignation letter, Stutzke cited several factors behind his decision and alleged that people with “personal and political agendas” are actively working against the department in hopes of seeing it fail. 

“The BOCC (Board of County Commissioners) has decided to go directly against any recommendations from this office,” Stutzke wrote. “This shows a complete lack of respect and acknowledgment of the people who serve our sheriff’s office.” 

Although his comments were directed at the BOCC, Stutzke singled out Commissioner Dave Dose, thanking him for his consistent support and commending him for not giving in to “outside political pressure.” 

Stutzke served as undersheriff to former Sheriff Holly Lindsey from 2022 until last month, when he became interim sheriff after Lindsey abruptly resigned following a hit-and-run incident that remains under investigation. 

Eddy was one of three finalists chosen from a pool of eight applicants, including Stutzke, for the sheriff’s position. On Tuesday, commissioners selected Eddy over Spike Angle and Chris Rice. 

Stutzke said he met with Eddy earlier this week but decided it wouldn’t be a good fit for him to remain at the SCSO in any capacity. 

“After meeting with the new sheriff, I do not feel that our vision for law enforcement leadership in 2025 and beyond align,” Stutzke said. “I wish him the best and hold no ill will toward him. His future success means the team I am leaving, and the community will be successful as well.” 

According to Stutzke, there was no discussion of a potential demotion, and he believes Eddy likely would have retained him as undersheriff if he had stayed with the department. 

"I was sorry to see him go," Eddy said. "He will be missed by everyone, including myself."

The SCSO has experienced a major shake-up in its administrative staff over the past month, including Lindsey and Jail Capt. Eli Lopez, who submitted his intent to resign one week after Lindsey stepped down. 

Dose said he was disheartened to receive Stutzke’s resignation but hopes for a smooth transition under the new sheriff. 

“I would like to wish Lance the best of luck in his future endeavors and thank him for his years of service to this county and our citizens. He will be missed,” Dose said. “And I echo his sentiments of wishing our new sheriff, Sheriff Eddy, all the best as he takes on a difficult job at a critical time for our county.” 

Commissioner Jeff Zimmerman didn't directly respond to Stutzke's resignation; instead, he offered support for the new sheriff. 

"I represent the people of Shoshone County, and that’s how I voted," Zimmerman said. "Sheriff Eddy will do a great job bringing this community and the sheriff’s department together."

During the Nov. 4 election, Shoshone County voters rejected a $2 million override levy intended to address budget shortfalls within the SCSO. Stutzke did not comment on whether the levy’s failure influenced his decision to resign. 

“I want to greatly thank everyone who supported myself and this agency along the way,” Stutzke said. “I hope to have been an impactful part of law enforcement change and leadership that makes this county proud and our SCSO employees hold their heads up high.” 

Commissioner Melissa Cowles could not be reached for comment.