Chief Deputy Nicole Morrisey O”Donnell has been chosen to serve as the Multnomah County sheriff in the event Sheriff Mike Reese cannot perform his duties.
The Multnomah County Commissioners on Jan. 17 unanimously approved Reese’s selection of Morrisey O’Donnell as his interim designee. The County Charter and Code require that elected officials designate a person to serve in the event the sheriff cannot serve until the position can be filled by an election or appointment.
The sheriff’s position is unusual among offices in that it requires the person to meet the Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training and be a certified as a law enforcement officer. Morrisey O’Donnell is dual certified in both law enforcement and corrections. A graduate of the University of Portland, she joined the Sheriff’s Department in 1996 and has held the ranks of deputy, lieutenant and captain. She currently serves as the Chief Deputy of the Corrections Services Division. A longtime Portland resident, Morrisey O’Donnell lives in southwest Portland with her husband, a retired deputy, and his retired canine partner.
Morrisey O’Donnell told the Board that she carries both Reese’s vision and goals of providing excellent public service and working alongside partners.
“I am prepared to represent the agency in this capacity,’’ she said.
Commissioners called her “an excellent pick,’’ and having “a wealth of experience’’ and “really special skills.’’
“You have not just the experience and education, but you have the heart and soul,’’ said Commissioner Sharon Meieran said.
Chair Deborah Kafoury noted the chief deputy was reacting a bit to the accolades. “It is not a comfortable position for you to have us oozing all this gratitude but thank you and thank you, Sheriff Reese.”
