Multnomah County

Sheriff Nicole Morrisey O’Donnell has been dedicated to public safety service since she began her career with the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office in 1996. Throughout her more than 25 years of service, her desire to learn every aspect of public safety has propelled her through the ranks of deputy,
lieutenant, captain, chief deputy, and undersheriff. In addition, she is one of the few Sheriff’s Office members who hold dual certification in police and corrections. As Multnomah County’s 41st Sheriff, Nicole is the first woman to hold this highest rank.

Community engagement has been, and will continue to be, a cornerstone of her approach to law enforcement. Over the years, Nicole has helped the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office develop strategies to understand and address the unique public safety needs of our area. She is deeply dedicated to building trust through open, honest community partnership and service.

Nicole’s commitment to community safety stems from an early childhood incident when her father survived a shooting during an armed robbery. Her family’s experience as victims of traumatic gun violence has impressed upon her the importance of victims’ voices. She is accountable to ensuring that
the criminal justice system remains aware of their professional, legal, and social responsibilities in responding to the needs of diverse populations. Gun violence remains a serious threat in our community and one of her top priorities to address.

Sheriff Morrisey O’Donnell’s priorities include:
– Reducing gun violence through proven strategies for prevention, intervention, and collaboration with system partners and community stakeholders
– Improving safety on our streets by increasing education and enforcement of dangerous driving behavior
– Investing in alternative service models and supports by partnering with service providers, such as mental health and addiction specialists who are focused on outreach efforts, housing, education, job skills, and treatment opportunities
– Focusing on recruiting and retention strategies to promote long-term agency growth and the health and well-being of our employees

Nicole is a life-long Oregonian and University of Portland Criminal Justice graduate. Her post-graduate training includes the Oregon Executive Development Institute and Oregon State Sheriffs’ Association Command College. She holds executive level certification from the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training. Outside of work, Nicole enjoys running, golf, spending time with family, and supporting Special Olympics Oregon. She lives in Portland with her husband, Bob.