Dundy County sheriff recalled on 712-63 vote

BENKELMAN, Neb. — By a decisive 92 percent, Dundy County voters have chosen to recall Sheriff Clinton "C.J." Smith, citing concerns over his lack of certification and a pattern of alleged misconduct.

Smith, who was elected as sheriff in 2022, failed to complete the required law enforcement training within the allotted eight months, as mandated by Nebraska law. The unofficial results, reported by the Dundy County Clerk, revealed that 712 voters favored Smith's removal, while 63 voted against it.

Community members, such as Sabrina Bernard, voiced their relief over the recall, emphasizing the importance of certified and trained law enforcement officials for the safety of the community. Bernard expressed concerns about a "rogue person" pulling people over without proper credentials.

Attorney Elizabeth Gau, representing the opposition to Smith, highlighted a "pattern of deliberate omissions, falsifications, or misrepresentations" during Smith's attempt to gain certification. Allegations included accusations of sexual harassment, as well as a history of separation from employment with a previous law enforcement agency. Gau asserted that Smith did not fit the criteria of an "honest, truthful, trustworthy" individual.

Despite legal efforts by Smith to halt the recall, including a request for an injunction on the grounds of potential harm to his reputation, the community's decision prevailed.

Smith has also taken legal action by filing a lawsuit against the state, the County Board of Commissioners, the County Attorney, and other individuals involved in the recall effort against him. His attempts to resist the recall included appearances on podcasts featuring "constitutional sheriffs."