Plumas County Sheriff Todd Johns announced his retirement during a Board of Supervisors meeting on May 20, expressing deep emotion as he reflected on his 34 years of service. His effective retirement date is set for July 28. Johns started his career with the Plumas County Sheriff’s Office in 1991 as a patrol deputy and progressed through various ranks, ultimately being appointed sheriff in 2019. He was elected to the position in 2022.
His tenure as sheriff has been marked by significant challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic and several devastating wildfires, notably the Dixie Fire. Johns played a crucial role in managing the response to these crises, collaborating with multiple agencies to ensure community safety and providing support to affected residents. His leadership during the Dixie Fire was particularly commendable, as he implemented aggressive evacuation orders that resulted in no lives lost.
In addition to crisis management, Johns advocated for higher wages for sheriff’s employees to address staffing shortages, which had necessitated the elimination of traditional patrol shifts. His efforts culminated in a substantial pay raise for all sheriff’s staff in October 2023, marking the largest salary increase for county employees in decades.
As he prepares to retire, Johns expressed gratitude for the support he received from his staff, the Board of Supervisors, and the community, emphasizing his pride in the accomplishments of the sheriff’s office and the improvements made during his tenure. He cited family health concerns as a primary reason for his decision to retire.
