BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KERO) — As he nears 50 years of law enforcement service, Kern County Sheriff Donny Youngblood announced at the Kern County Board of Supervisors' Tuesday meeting that he is retiring in January 2027.
“Half of them are happy for me. The other half are happy that I'm leaving. I've always had the ability to make everybody happy,” Youngblood joked when conveying the news to the Kern County Board of Supervisors.
The sheriff's election is held every four years, and Youngblood said he will retire when his term expires in January.
When asked about the timing of his official retirement, Youngblood pointed to a state law that passed during his most recent election in 2022 that would extend his term past what he wanted to serve.
“I ran for a four-year term that ends January 8th. The governor and the legislature extended it two years after the election, which is not two years that I ran for, so I just felt like it was an opportune time to retire and give the board an opportunity to appoint a new sheriff for the remaining two years,” said Youngblood. “Everyone has to retire at some point in their career, and this is the right time for me.”
"What an honor it has been to get to know you through your service and leadership. You have been an outstanding leader for this community," said Phillip Peters, Kern County's 1st District supervisor.
The Board of Supervisors will now need to appoint an interim sheriff for the remaining two years of Youngblood's term before the decision is put before voters during the 2028 election.
A lifelong Kern County resident, Youngblood served 30 years with the Kern County Sheriff's Office before returning to serve 20 years as sheriff.
In the wake of the announcement, District Attorney Cynthia Zimmer told 23ABC in a statement: “I’ve worked with the Sheriff for more than four decades and have seen him serve in various roles throughout his law enforcement career. I thank him for his many years of service to the community and wish him the best in his future endeavors.”
The Bakersfield Police Department offered its congratulations to Sheriff Youngblood in a social media post.
23ABC also spoke with local law enforcement to get their reaction to the news, with Shafter Chief of Police Randy Milligan saying Youngblood’s shoes are going to be hard to fill.
"I believe Sheriff Youngblood's done a great job," said Milligan. “He's been elected in the position and been trusted with the community for so many years. I think a replacement should carry on similar leadership traits to what Sheriff Youngblood has offered over the years. His shoes are going to be hard to fill.”
Wasco Police Chief Alecio Mora said he believes that Youngblood set the standard for law enforcement.
"I was excited for him. I want to wish him nothing but the best; it's a well-earned retirement, and he should be proud. He should be very proud because he's leaving behind a legacy of service and professionalism and strong working relationships with allied agencies."
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