BENKELMAN, Neb. — Dundy County Sheriff Ryan L. King announced his resignation on Wednesday, effective Friday, January 24.

King, who has served as sheriff since taking over from retired Sheriff Justin Nichols, shared the decision in a letter addressed to the commissioners and citizens of Dundy County.

In the letter, King reflected on his tenure and credited the teamwork of the sheriff's office in improving relationships with surrounding agencies and advancing investigative efforts to reduce crime. “Dundy County has grown on me greatly, and I have enjoyed the citizens and being involved in community events,” King wrote.

King stated his decision to resign stems from his plans to apply for and serve as the Hitchcock County Sheriff. Both he and Chief Deputy Thomas Jones previously spent much of their careers in Hitchcock County and have received numerous calls from residents urging them to return due to concerns over limited law enforcement resources.

“This was not an easy decision,” King said, noting he discussed the move with his family and Chief Deputy Jones before deciding to pursue the new role.

King acknowledged the challenges his resignation may pose to Dundy County, given the limited staff at the sheriff’s office. However, he reassured residents that a continuity plan is in place, with Chief Deputy Jones and Deputy Michael Damon expressing their desire to join him in Hitchcock County. King added that Jones would continue teaching D.A.R.E. at Dundy County-Stratton Elementary School for the remainder of the year if needed.

King pledged to continue collaborating with the Dundy County Sheriff’s Office through joint training programs to strengthen both agencies.