News Release from: Clackamas Co. Sheriff's Office

Clackamas County Sheriff's Deputy resigns

Posted: October 7, 2008 2:27 p.m.

Brandon Claggett has concluded his 14-year career with the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office.

During his tenure as a Deputy Sheriff, Brandon Claggett was a certified drug-recognition expert (DRE) and representative of the Weed and Seed Program in the Mt. Hood sector of Clackamas County.

During his assigned post -- primarily serving along the Mt. Hood corridor and Mt. Hood communities -- one of Deputy Claggett’s ancillary duties was to target illicit marijuana activity in-and-around the linked communities of Mount Hood. These time-honored communities rest along the corridor of State Hwy. 26, east of the City of Sandy, all the way to Government Camp at the base of Mt. Hood.

On July 8, 2008, Deputy Brandon Claggett was placed on administrative leave by the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office. Administrative leave is used when it is deemed necessary to remove an employee from active duty while conducting an investigation into allegations of misconduct. In the case of Deputy Claggett, the Sheriff’s Office was notified of alleged misconduct by the Oregon Department of Justice.

In mid-September, 2008, a criminal investigation was completed and presented to the Clackamas County District Attorney’s Office. The Clackamas County District Attorney’s Office completed a review of the allegations and subsequent investigation and declined to prosecute based on that information. Upon learning of this decision, the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office initiated an internal investigation. It is common practice to let the criminal investigation run its course before beginning an internal investigation.

On Oct. 7, 2008 Deputy Brandon Claggett resigned his 14-year position with Clackamas County.

Deputy Claggett is no longer an employee of the County, and as such, the internal investigation will be closed.

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Contact Info: Lieutenant Kevin Layng
Clackamas County Sheriff's Office