Board appoints Rick Bradford as Kings County sheriff, effective Nov. 24

The Kings County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday confirmed the appointment of Rick Bradford as Kings County sheriff effective Nov. 24, 2025, to serve the remainder of Sheriff Dave Robinson’s current term.

The board voted to fill the vacancy created by Sheriff Dave Robinson’s resignation. Matthew Boya, deputy county administrative officer, told the board that state law requires the board to fill the vacancy by appointment. Boya said Bradford currently serves as undersheriff and oversees patrol, detectives, jail operations and other divisions.

Sheriff Dave Robinson, who is stepping down before the end of his term, spoke in support of Bradford and recounted their long working relationship. “Rick is an outstanding person,” Robinson said, describing Bradford’s career in the sheriff’s office and saying Bradford has taken on many responsibilities in recent months.

Bradford, who has worked at the sheriff’s office since 1995, told the board he accepts the appointment. Several members of the public and local officials spoke in support, including Mark Kyria of Hanford and Scott Hallwell, a public guardian and veteran service officer who noted Bradford’s Marine Corps service.

The clerk recorded the vote as five in favor. The appointment covers the remainder of Robinson’s elected term until the next sheriff’s election in 2028; the board said compensation and benefits will be set at a later meeting.

Why it matters: The appointment installs an internal candidate with more than three decades at the sheriff’s office and aims to provide continuity in department leadership ahead of the next election. The board and sheriff’s office said the selection follows the process defined by state law for filling a vacancy.

What’s next: Bradford will take office Nov. 24, 2025. The board indicated it will address salary and benefits for the role at a future meeting.