New sheriff in town

Travis Stolley was sworn in as Boundary County sheriff Monday to fill the position formerly held for two terms by Dave Kramer, who is retiring after 50 years of local service. 

Born and raised in Boundary County, Stolley graduated from Bonners Ferry High School in 2005. He has worn many hats in the community as a deputy, a sheriff office reserve deputy, a school resource officer and a wrestling coach. 

“Sheriff Kramer left this place a lot better than when he found it, and my goal is to do the same,” Stolley said. “I’m excited to get to work; it’s been a long time coming. There’s a lot of good men and women at the sheriff’s office.” 

Former Bonners Ferry Police Chief Brian Zimmerman has come out of retirement to take over Rich Stephens' role as undersheriff.  

Two weeks ago, Stolley informed Stephens that he would not be retaining him in any capacity. After 20 years with the department, Stephens will be stepping down. 

“That was one of the most unexpected and painful moments that I have experienced, one that I am now coming to grips with,” Stephens wrote in a public statement. “I do wish success for the men and women of the Boundary County Sheriff’s Office moving into the future.” 

Stolley said that Zimmerman will be able to join the team seamlessly. Zimmerman started working with Kramer in the early 1980s. His return to the force coincided with Kramer’s retirement from a full-time position. 

“Brian has a lot of leadership skills,” Kramer said. “Between him and Travis, the sheriff’s office really has an outstanding group.” 

Kramer celebrated for long career of service

Dave Kramer enjoys a celebration in his honor for 50 years of local law enforcement.

Dozens gathered at the Boundary County Annex on Jan. 10 to honor Dave Kramer. Early-career and out-of-state colleagues made the trip to commemorate his 50 years of law enforcement, volunteerism and community activism. Some hadn’t worked alongside Kramer for more than 25 years. 

“They’re more than just coworkers and partners,” Kramer said. “They’re friends.” 

Kramer said he is looking forward to enjoying more time to spend outdoors and with his wife of 39 years, Andrea, who is also former law enforcement.  

While he retired from the sheriff’s office, Kramer said he is not ready to fully step down; he’s already taken two part-time jobs. 

“The retirement date is never something that you look for, and it seems like it still came fast,” Kramer said. “I feel really blessed to have worked my entire career in this community. It’s been a special place to work and to have a whole career.”