Whatcom County Undersheriff Steve Harris has been placed on administrative leave pending an investigation into his conduct, according to Sheriff Donnell Tanksley.
Harris has been on paid leave since Thursday, Aug. 30 after complaints were sent to Tanksley and Whatcom County Human Resources, according to an email from Tanksley’s office.
The investigation does not include criminal allegations, but the nature of the investigation was not disclosed in the announcement.
“It is a common practice for law enforcement agencies to place employees on administrative leave while an investigation into allegations of potential misconduct are being completed,” according to Tanksley. “Paid administrative leave is non-disciplinary, and does not mean that the agency is acknowledging that the allegations against the employee are true.”
Harris has more than 28 years of experience in the Sheriff’s Office. He was promoted from deputy sheriff in late 2023 to undersheriff before Tanksley took office. When Harris was a detective, he handled major crimes and complex financial crimes. He was also a field training officer and a member of the marine patrol.
Harris served for 14 years as president of the Whatcom County Deputy Sheriff’s Guild. He also unsuccessfully ran for sheriff in 2011.
According to Tanksley, the investigation into Harris will be conducted by an independent investigator.
Deb Slater, the public information officer for the sheriff’s office, did not immediately respond to questions about the nature of the investigation or how long it will take.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
Annie Todd is CDN’s criminal justice/enterprise reporter; reach her at annietodd@cascadiadaily.com; 360-922-3090 ext. 130.
