After more than three decades in law enforcement, Jamie Van Voorst is preparing to retire, closing the chapter on a career that began in 1993 and ultimately led him to serve as Sioux County Sheriff.
Van Voorst says law enforcement was never just a job, but a calling he felt from an early age.
Over the years, Van Voorst has seen the profession change dramatically, from advances in technology to a greater emphasis on community engagement. But he says relationships — both inside the department and across Sioux County — have remained at the heart of the work.
As sheriff, Van Voorst says one of the most rewarding aspects of leadership was mentoring others and working alongside staff across all divisions of the office.
The career also brought moments that left a lasting impact, including responding to major emergencies and delivering death notifications to families. Van Voorst says those experiences shape every officer who serves long enough.
Ultimately, Van Voorst says his decision to retire centers on family. With his children and grandchildren living several hours away, he says the timing felt right to step back and be more present.
As he prepares to step away, Van Voorst expressed gratitude for the strong support law enforcement receives in Sioux County and encouraged residents to remain engaged with their local officers.
As he prepares to step away, Van Voorst says Chief Deputy Nate Huizenga is ready to step into the role and continue leading the office forward.
County leaders plan to appoint Huizenga as interim sheriff, with him scheduled to take the oath of office on January 2nd.
