Los Santos County Sheriff's Department Message from Sheriff Ian Walter "A TRADITION OF SERVICE" |
- October 25th, 2025Members of the Los Santos County Sheriff’s Department and citizens of Los Santos County,
I stand before you today, deeply humbled and profoundly honored by the trust the San Andreas State Government has placed in me to serve as your next Sheriff. I accept this responsibility with a clear understanding of the immense legacy we carry forward and the vital importance of continuing our mission to protect and serve the citizens of this county.
Undoubtedly, this leadership transition is significant. For years, this Department has been guided by a combination of both visionary Sheriffs and dedicated Undersheriffs. Sheriff Bobby Kirk defined an era of exceptional service and strong leadership. Before that, Undersheriff Wallace, during his tenure as Sheriff, provided the same level of exceptional service and ultimately laid a powerful foundation for which we stand today. And Undersheriff Payne’s steadfast commitment, supporting both of his predecessors, has been a pillar of consistency and strength. I extend my sincere, personal gratitude to all three for their selfless service, and particularly for the trust they placed in me when I first walked through our doors seeking to become a Deputy Sheriff.
This concept of trust, which is fundamental to our agency, is something I want us all to reflect on. Unlike other law enforcement agencies, the role of a Sheriff's Deputy uniquely different than our counterparts over at the Los Santos Police Department. At the Sheriff's Department, regardless of the individual's rank, each member of the Department (other than the Sheriff) holds the position of "Deputy Sheriff". This term is a clear reminder that the Sheriff themself personally entrusts their role, their authority, their duty, to each of their Deputies and each Deputy serves at the pleasure of the Sheriff. For the past four and a half years, it has been my distinct honor to serve as both a Deputy of both Sheriffs Kirk and Sheriff Wallace.
Now, as I step into the role of Sheriff, that sacred trust is transferred to me and now to the individuals I have had the honor to serve alongside, but now in a different aspect - as my Deputies. I ask that the Deputies who now serve at my behest continue to uphold and honor the unparalleled legacy of service set by Sheriffs Kirk and Wallace and Undersheriff Payne. Your dedication is the true strength of this Department. And in exchange, I will do everything in my power to work for you. As your Sheriff, I pledge to lead with purpose, striving to not only continue the highest quality of service that the people of Los Santos County expect, but also to build a resilient leadership structure for the future. We have a shared mission, a profound history, and an exciting future. I look forward to leading this dedicated Department into its next chapter of service.
With the announcements and transition over the past week, we face not only a transition at the top but a necessary restructuring, as we look to fill the pivotal roles vacated by the departure of two Undersheriffs. While we feel the symbolic weight of the "massive shoes" that have been left to fill, we must also acknowledge the very real operational need to restore leadership across our highest ranks. There will be some necessary movement in very proximate future, as necessary changes are on the horizon. But, with such a major undertaking, there will be some time needed and I respectfully request the patience and understanding of every Deputy and the community we serve, as we navigate this transitional period.
Now - for the first major decision I am making as Sheriff. I have spoken with each member of Executive Staff at some level, and assessed some great ideas from each of them. I have also met with the Chief of Police, where we shared some ideas. I am optimistic about the many ideas out there, and excited for the future. I am deeply thankful that Sheriff Kirk, Undersheriffs Wallace, and Undersheriff Payne will remain in the Department as Sheriff's Commissioners to continue their service, lending their invaluable experience and counsel to me as I assume the role of your Sheriff. But over the past week as Acting Sheriff, I have quickly come to realize even as Acting Sheriff, it's awfully lonely and this department needs more than just one person. So, to assist in the immediate term, it is my extreme honor to announce the appointment of Wiley Reno to the rank of Undersheriff!
Undersheriff Reno will join me alongside Assistant Sheriffs Oscar Black and Steve Smyth as we carry forth the mission for which we have been charged. Again, more changes in personnel and structure are on the horizon.
God bless Sheriff Bobby Kirk, Undersheriffs Wallace and Payne, and the Los Santos County Sheriff’s Department.
- From
Sheriff Ian Walter
Los Santos County Sheriff's Department
