About Sheriff Matt Clifford

 
 

Sheriff Matt Clifford is a lifelong resident of Idaho who cherishes the qualities that make Ada County a beautiful and safe place to live, work, and play. After earning a biology degree from Boise State University, he started a career in law enforcement at the Ada County Sheriff’s Office where he has proudly worked for more than 21 years. He has been a K9 handler, patrol trainer, patrol and court transport sergeant as well as supervised the K9 team and patrol training program.  He also previously served as the Chief of Police in the City of Eagle.

After the abrupt departure of the former sheriff, Matt was appointed to serve as Ada County Sheriff by the Board of County Commissioners in June 2021. There has never been any question -- he wants to be your Ada County Sheriff for years to come.  Matt is committed to listening to people in our community – people just like you – to help guide policies and practices. Through those conversations, cooperation with neighboring agencies and city leaders, proper training and equipment, he is confident we can responsibly manage our tremendous population growth while delivering the quality of service you expect from the Ada County Sheriff’s Office.

Matt promises to uphold conservative values and constitutional freedoms, like the 2nd amendment, that make so many families want to call Ada County home.  He will stand up against any federal overreach that could threaten the liberties, values, and freedoms we treasure.

Matt grew up in the small mining town of Mullan in North Idaho. That’s where he met his wife, Karen. They have been married for almost 25 years, have an adult daughter, and will soon add a son-in-law to the family. Matt and Karen love watching football, enjoying time with friends, and fostering dogs awaiting their forever homes through the Idaho Humane Society. When given the chance, the couple loves to travel, especially to warm tropical beaches. They also love outdoor adventures in their motorhome with the dogs.

KEY SKILLS & PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE:

  • More than 24 years of exemplary service with the Ada County Sheriff’s Office

  • Proven fiscal responsibility and efficient budget management

  • Successfully managed $100+ million Sheriff Office budget, 800+ personnel, equipment & training

  • Experience and insight gained through diverse assignments in the jail, patrol, court services and as you Ada County Sheriff

  • Extensive formal and informal leadership roles as a K9 handler, trainer, commander, and Chief of Police

  • Established relationships with community justice partners, elected officials, and stakeholders

SPECIALIZED TRAINING & CERTIFICATIONS:

  • Idaho Peace Officer Standards and Training - Basic, Intermediate, & Advanced Patrol Officer Certification; Supervisor Certification

  • Federal Emergency Management Agency - Incident Command System (ICS); Intermediate ICS for Expanding Incidents; Advanced ICS for Command Staff

  • International Association of Chiefs of Police - Leadership in Police Organizations

  • Ada County Sheriff’s Office - Sheriff’s Leadership College

EDUCATION:

  • Bachelor of Science in Biology, Boise State University