Next Ottawa Co. undersheriff intends to run for sheriff

Katie Rosendale
·2 min read

HOLLAND, Mich. (WOOD) — A 25-year veteran of the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office — and the county’s next undersheriff — says he will run for the top job.

On Monday, Ottawa County Sheriff Steve Kempker announced he would retire in December, just weeks after Undersheriff Valerie Weiss announced her own retirement. Weiss’ last day is set for Feb. 28, and then Sgt. Eric DeBoer will take over as undersheriff.

‘Rewarding career’: Ottawa County sheriff to retire

Now, DeBoer says he plans to run for the position of sheriff. He will seek the Republican nomination in the August primary.

“Sheriff Steve Kempker and former Sheriff Gary Rosema have worked to develop the most professional sheriff’s department in Michigan,” DeBoer said Thursday in a statement. “If Ottawa County voters choose me as their next Sheriff, I will work tirelessly to continue that excellent legacy.”

DeBoer, of Park Township, started at the sheriff’s office in 1999. During his career, he has investigated cases that range from homicides to robberies, worked with the Children’s Advocacy Center to help prosecute crimes against children and served on a multiagency drug enforcement task force, according to a news release.

Ottawa County sheriff announces new undersheriff

“As a community policing officer, I see it as vital that our department continue to develop strong relationships with local governments, businesses, and non-profit organizations to ensure awareness of challenges to public safety in our county,” he said. “…My goals for the department are to continue victim advocacy and using modern tools to ensure our department performs well to ensure a safe and secure community.”

DeBoer graduated from the Kalamazoo Valley Community College Police Academy and holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Calvin University, as well as a master’s in public administration from Grand Valley State University.

Kempker’s successor will take office Jan. 1, 2025.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com.