Sheriff Russ Skinner was appointed by the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors on February 8th, 2024, to serve as the Maricopa County Sheriff followed by Sheriff Paul Penzone's departure. Since joining MCSO in May 1990, Sheriff Skinner's three decade-long tenure has seen him in various roles and assignments including command and executive leadership positions. As a second-generation Maricopa County Sheriff’s Deputy, Sheriff Skinner's early exposure and interest to public safety led him to a career in law enforcement.

Passionate about community engagement, Sheriff Skinner prioritizes interaction with the community, MCSO staff, volunteers, and partner agencies. His extensive background includes roles as a D.A.R.E. Officer, Community Education and Program Coordinator, Volunteer Services Coordinator, and Search and Rescue Coordinator. As a detective and investigative supervisor, he handled district investigations, narcotics, financial crimes, and computer crimes, fostering strong relationships with law enforcement agencies and ensuring justice for victims. Sheriff Skinner was also one of the first staff members assigned to initiate reforms and compliance measures for the Federal Court Order involving MCSO and is dedicated to the continued progress to achieve agency sustainment for full and effective compliance.

Sheriff Skinner holds certifications in Digital Forensics, Cyber Crime Investigations, Racketeering and Organized Crime Investigations, Mounted Patrol Deputy, Master SCUBA Diver, Search and Rescue Coordinator, Patrol Watercraft Operations, and Certified AZPOST Instructor. Actively involved in law enforcement and community associations, his focus is on strengthening partnerships, progressive public safety initiatives, crime mitigation, and strategic planning. As the population of Maricopa County has grown, so have the needs for enhanced public safety preparedness and the frequency of operational management of major events impacting the county; Sheriff Skinner has been an active participant and leader in executing several multi-agency public safety missions and emergency training exercises.

In his previous role under Sheriff Penzone, Sheriff Skinner led Patrol and Investigative Operations, the Compliance Bureau, and served as Chief Deputy overseeing the Enforcement and Custody Bureaus. Grateful for the opportunity, Sheriff Skinner, a Valley resident for over 50 years, expresses gratitude for the support of his family and the MCSO staff. Ready to provide progressive leadership in public safety, jail custody programs, and successful compliance efforts, Sheriff Skinner is honored to continue serving the community.