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About

I began my law enforcement career in 2006 in the state of Michigan. After 11 years on patrol, also serving as a Search and Recovery Diver, and Field Training Officer, I made the decision to make a major life change and move to Montana.​

 

Since 2017, I have been a Patrol Deputy, Sergeant, Search and Rescue Commander and Patrol Captain with your Park County Sheriff's Office. In February of 2024, I was appointed as Sheriff Brad Bichler's Undersheriff. On February 3rd, 2026 Sheriff Brad Bichler announced he was retiring and endorsing me to take his place. The following week on February 10th, the Park County Commission voted to appoint me as the next Sheriff of Park County and on Friday, February 13th I was sworn in as your Sheriff.

 

During my time with the Park County Sheriff's Office, I found that I wanted to fully commit myself to my community. I realized I had the ability to affect positive change. Shortly after arriving, I took command of the Search and Rescue program and worked to revamp, collaborate, and bring in more community involvement. I set in place a core group of volunteers to advise and guide the trajectory of our SAR team. This team currently works on training, equipment and volunteer member requirements and engagements. 

Recently, our Office has seen a higher frequency of violent criminal activity. In order to better protect our community during volatile engagements, I have put together a "Quick Reaction Force" (QRF). QRF has been a statewide push for trained Deputies who can bridge the gap in tactical situations between patrol and a tactical response team. These Deputies have a higher level of training to respond to crisis in the most effective way to minimize risks to individuals and the community at large.

I am committed to constantly evaluating the needs of our community in an ever evolving society. Change is inevitable, however, personal connections and service remains at the forefront of our mission. Together, we can build a strong, safe, Park County community.

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​I am married to the most amazing woman, Alyssa, who has supported and pushed me to where I am now. Alyssa and I have created a wonderful home for our four dogs and our daughter, Hattie, who attends St. Mary's Catholic School here in Livingston. Alyssa and I separately moved to Montana in 2017 and found our way together in 2023. We tied the knot in 2025 and are excited for where life is going to take us. Alyssa is a Realtor with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices in Livingston. She also owns Wild Canine and specializes in training Belgian Malinois, Dutch Shepherds, German Shepherds and dogs with behavioral issues.

 

In our personal lives, we are constantly on the go hunting, fishing and exploring. I dabbled shortly with guiding fly fishing trips, but realized I needed to focus on my career and family and leave my hobby as a retirement gig! Long miles for public land big game, spending nights under the stars, has been my passion for many years. I love getting away from noise and sitting under the trees. 

Search and Rescue on Yellowstone River
Tad and Alyssa at TAC in Big Sky 2024
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Tad Dykstra's dedication and vision will lead Park County to a safer and more involved future.

Community Endorsements

Sheriff Brad Bichler 

Jeff Mount

Don and Kendra Hilton 

Scott Brady and Collette Hertz 

Aaron and Cindy Miller

Gunnar Petersen 

Richard and Molly Bradbury (Clerk of District Court)

Scott and Gina Morrison

Andrew Emanuel

Larry and Cathy Stephensen 

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Tad Dykstra for Sheriff

Raghorn and Rye

Tad 2016 Kent County MI

Tad Dykstra in 2016
Kent County Sheriff's Office
MI

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