Scott Mascher, Yavapai County Sheriff since 2011, has announced his retirement, effective when his term expires at the end of December 2020. Mascher has been a member of the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office since 1983.
A news release from the YCSO quoted Masher: “I have accomplished many goals as sheriff and am ready to pass the torch as I move into private life and explore other opportunities following my retirement next year.”
Mascher, 58, began his law enforcement career 37 years ago. He was a volunteer deputy in the Verde Valley in 1983. In 1986, he became a full-time deputy.
He earned an administration of justice degree and later graduated from the Arizona Law Enforcement Training Academy. He also graduated from the FBI National Academy.
He worked his way up the ranks of sergeant, lieutenant, captain, commander and chief deputy. When his predecessor Steve Waugh retired in 2011, Mascher was appointed as sheriff.
He later was elected and then reelected. Mascher has administered three divisions: Law Enforcement Services, Detention Services and Support Services in Yavapai County, which at 8,128 square miles is one of the largest counties in the U.S.
Chief Deputy David Rhodes has announced his intent to run for sheriff following Mascher’s retirement. Rhodes has been with the YCSO since 1994.