The Blaine County Sheriff’s Office announced on April 20 that it has officially notified the City of Ketchum of the termination of its law enforcement services, in line with their current contract. The notice states that BCSO will stop providing these services to Ketchum no later than August 18, 2026.
This change marks a significant transition for both the city and the sheriff’s office as Ketchum prepares to establish its own police department. According to Section 3.1.a of the FY2025 BCSO Contract, either party may terminate services with 120 days’ written notice. The agreement also requires both parties to develop a mutually agreed-upon transition plan within thirty days, and each side will cover its own costs during this process.
At the request of BCSO and after consulting with the Blaine County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, it was decided that all existing cases and evidence currently held by BCSO—as well as any generated during the transition—will remain in their custody. This is intended to ensure proper handling of evidence and maintain integrity in ongoing investigations.
“This approach allows the City of Ketchum to focus fully on establishing its new police department—including developing policies and procedures, recruiting and hiring personnel, developing evidence protocols, and acquiring necessary resources—while we maintain continuity for victims, investigations, and the judicial process,” said Blaine County Sheriff Morgan Ballis. Ballis continued: “Our greatest concern with the transition process is the protection of evidence and supporting ongoing investigations. We are dedicated to supporting victims with the highest level of resources, while maintaining our legal responsibility to protect the due process rights of the accused. It is in the best interest of the community and all parties involved for BCSO to retain these cases and evidence transitionally.”
The sheriff’s office said it remains committed to ensuring a smooth handover that prioritizes public safety throughout this period. “Our primary focus will remain on community safety, victim support, and the fair administration of justice,” concluded Ballis.
