Idaho Sheriff Steps Down After Off-Duty Crash Sparks Criminal Probe
WALLACE, ID — Shoshone County Sheriff Holly Lindsay abruptly resigned this week after being involved in a potential off-duty hit-and-run accident, now under investigation. The incident occurred Tuesday while Lindsay was behind the wheel of her personal vehicle. The Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office has taken over the investigation.
While authorities have yet to release official findings, multiple law enforcement sources confirmed that Lindsay left the scene of the crash. Early reports also indicate alcohol may have been a factor.
Sheriff’s Office Tries to Maintain Composure Amid Scandal
On Wednesday morning, the Shoshone County Board of Commissioners received a formal resignation letter from Lindsay, who had served in the sheriff’s office for over 20 years. Her letter, while expressing appreciation for her colleagues and community, avoided directly addressing the circumstances leading to her departure.
“It is with a heavy heart that I must resign,” she wrote. “It has been one of the greatest honors of my life.”
Despite the emotional language, the resignation comes as Lindsay faces growing criticism over her conduct, both during the incident and in past months, with several local figures questioning her leadership, decision-making, and judgment. Her tenure had already drawn public scrutiny from within the law enforcement community and residents in recent years.
Interim Leadership Appointed as Investigation Continues
Undersheriff Lance Stutzke has stepped in as acting sheriff while the county searches for a permanent replacement. The Board of County Commissioners will oversee the appointment process.
The Sheriff’s Office released a brief statement thanking Lindsay for her service and requesting the public to respect her years of work. However, calls for transparency are growing as citizens demand accountability, especially in light of the hit-and-run allegations and the potential DUI charges.
Public Trust in Question
The incident raises larger questions about trust in local leadership and law enforcement standards in Shoshone County. The fact that a sitting sheriff may have fled the scene of a crash — potentially under the influence — has sparked frustration among residents and officials alike.
The Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office has not announced when results of the investigation will be made public. No charges have been filed yet, but legal experts say a hit-and-run and DUI involving a law enforcement officer could result in serious criminal consequences.
This is a developing story. Idaho News will continue to monitor updates from investigators and county officials.
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