Doug recently retired as the Undersheriff with the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office, after a long
and successful career in public safety. Doug served with the Sheriff’s Office for over 29 years,
promoting through the ranks from patrol deputy to his position as Undersheriff. During his
career with the Sheriff’s Office, Doug held numerous specialty assignments which have provided
him with a wide range of experiences, knowledge, and skills. These assignments have included:
Executive and Management experience, Field Training Officer (FTO), Narcotics Detective,
Firearms/Use of Force Instructor, SWAT Team Leader and Commander, Fair and Impartial
Policing Instructor and Active Shooter Instructor. In addition, he has served as a Task Force
Officer with both the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Bureau of Alcohol
Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) investigating large criminal organizations involved in the
distribution of drugs and other criminal activity.
Doug graduated from Western Washington University in 1993 with a Bachelor of Science in
Biology. He intended to pursue a career as a medical doctor but was always interested in law
enforcement and ultimately made the decision to serve his community as a peace officer. He is a
2014 graduate of the FBI National Academy, which trains law enforcement executives from
around the world. He also taught as an adjunct instructor in the Criminal Justice program at
Whatcom Community College, teaching a course on Police – Community Relations.
Doug and his wife, Lara, have long supported Sean Humphrey House and their mission of
ensuring that everyone can live their best life. Doug’s daughter is currently pursuing a nursing
degree and has worked as one of the caregivers at Sean Humphrey House. In his off time, Doug
enjoys golf, fishing, live music (+beer) and travel.
Be well and be safe!
