The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office will be closing all offices including the jail administration office on September 14, 2022 at 12:30 PM in order for our staff to attend the celebration of life for Lt. Ernie Brown.
As a reminder, the celebration of life for Lt. Ernie Brown will be taking place on September 14 at 2:00 PM at the Deschutes County Fairgrounds in the Middle Sister building. The public is welcome to attend. The media is also welcome to attend. Media will be directed to the designated media area upon arrival.
The Sheriff’s Office will livestream Lt. Brown’s celebration of life for those unable to attend. The livestream can be found at https://www.youtube.com/
Lt. Brown’s family requests instead of flowers, donations be made in Lt. Brown’s name to any of these organizations: Oregon Fallen Badge Foundation (Oregon Fallen Badge Foundation), Creating Memories for Disabled Children (Creating Memories for Disabled Children), or Tight Blue Lines.
On September 4, 2022 the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office was informed that Lt. Ernie Brown died in an off duty motorcycle crash in Junction City, Oregon. Lt. Brown was transported to the hospital after the crash, but passed away from injuries he received.
Lt. Brown began his career with the Sheriff’s Office 24 years ago as a technician in our corrections division. Lt. Brown became a corrections deputy in 2001. During his time with the Sheriff’s Office, Lt. Brown proved himself to be a leader. Ernie earned the rank of Sergeant in 2011. He later became the Sheriff’s Office training Sergeant before being promoted to Lieutenant in 2019. Lt. Brown was also a founding member of the DCSO SWAT Team and the Sheriff’s Office Honor Guard.
Lt. Brown was a veteran having proudly served in the United States Marine Corps.
Lt. Brown is survived by his wife and three adult children. His family is requesting their privacy during this tragic time.
“Ernie was a humble and kind man, a selfless public servant, and dedicated husband, father, and grandfather. He touched many lives and was always willing to lend a helping hand to everyone. Our office has lost a great teammate and friend, and our community has lost a dedicated public servant.” Sheriff L. Shane Nelson
“Our family would like to thank everyone for the outpouring of love and honor for our beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend. Thank you for helping us through this most difficult time.” Brown/Piatt family
