Ken Dickinson named interim Kitsap County sheriff

The Kitsap County Board of Commissioners has appointed former Kitsap County Sheriff’s Office lieutenant Ken Dickinson as the interim sheriff. The appointment is pending the successful completion of state-mandated background checks, with the board planning to swear him in at an August 24 meeting.

Dickinson, who retired in May 2025 after more than 31 years with the department, previously held various roles including patrol deputy, sergeant, and lieutenant. He succeeds former Sheriff John Gese, who resigned on June 29. Penelope Sapp has been serving as acting sheriff during the interim appointment process.

Dickinson will serve until the certification of the November general election results. The upcoming election for the permanent position features candidates Brandon Myers and Rick Kuss.