The Oneida County Deputies met for an informal discussion with Sheriff Doug Williams on Wednesday, April 8, 2026. The Oneida County Deputies organization is a group of citizens who support the mission of law enforcement in the county, and work to bring awareness to the community.  Last year, the Deputies initiated an impromptu show of support and gratitude for local law enforcement following the murder of members of law enforcement in Garland, Utah.  The event, which was called “Paint the Town Blue,” included local students and community members decorating location throughout the town—including the courthouse, schools, and local businesses.  The event was capped with an evening meeting of the Deputies.

Last week, thirteen members of the organization met for this impromptu meeting that concentrated on the problems the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office is facing.

Using a game show format called “The Evidence Is in the Answer,” Sheriff Williams informed the group about the difficulty he is facing in retaining and recruiting officers. The major obstacles to resolving the problem are low wages, lack of family benefits, and lack of housing.

Currently, there are only five deputies providing law enforcement services for both the County and the City.  The Sheriff’s Office has not been fully staffed for three years, leading to no patrol during some hours of every day.  Malad is not immune to much-publicized legal problems, such as drug use, pornography, child abuse, and domestic violence. Lengthy discussions of the County Justice Fund and the Sheriff’s Office’s contract with the City ensued.

President Jerry Thomas announced that the next regular meeting of the Oneida County Deputies will be held during the summer.