Darin Rice for Winnebago County Sheriff

An Experienced, Proven Leader Dedicated to Community Safety, Integrity, Service, and Accountability.

Darin Rice Profile Picture

Darin Rice for Winnebago County Sheriff

An Experienced, Proven Leader Dedicated to Community Safety, Integrity, Service, and Accountability.

Darin Rice for Winnebago County Sheriff

Darin Rice is a dedicated public servant, experienced law enforcement professional, and proud member of the Winnebago County community. With a career built on integrity, accountability, and service, Darin is running for Winnebago County Sheriff to strengthen public safety, modernize operations, and build lasting trust between the Sheriff’s Office and the people it serves.

A Vision Centered on Service and Community

As your next Sheriff, Darin will work to build a Sheriff’s Office focused on customer service and positive community engagement. He believes that every interaction with the public matters and that law enforcement must be accessible, respectful, and responsive.

Protecting the Most Vulnerable

Placing special emphasis on safeguarding children, seniors, victims of crime, and individuals facing mental health or substance abuse challenges.

Fair, Equitable, and Transparent Policing

Delivering law enforcement services in a manner that is just, unbiased, and open to public accountability.

Responsive Leadership

Leading an agency that is receptive and responsive to the needs, concerns, and priorities of the community it serves.

Modernized Service Delivery

Modernizing the delivery of law enforcement services to meet today’s evolving challenges while maintaining the highest professional standards.

Smart Innovation and Fiscal Responsibility

Darin understands that public safety must be paired with responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars. He will incorporate improved technology in a fiscally responsible manner—ensuring deputies have the tools they need while protecting the county’s financial health.

He also believes in collaboration as a force multiplier. Darin will explore opportunities to enhance services through cooperation with other law enforcement agencies, the courts, applicable non-profit organizations, and local, state, and federal governmental partners. By working together, agencies can improve efficiency, reduce duplication, and better serve the public.

Ready to Lead

Darin is not seeking office for recognition—he is running to serve. He brings experience, integrity, and a clear vision for a Sheriff’s Office that is professional, innovative, and community-focused.

With a commitment to leadership, fairness, and modernization, Darin is ready to guide the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office into the future—delivering exceptional service and building a safer, stronger Winnebago County for all.

MEET DARIN

A Career of Service and Leadership

Throughout his 25-year law enforcement career, Darin has earned a reputation as a steady, principled leader who puts community first. He has focused on proactive policing, strong partnerships, and measurable results.

He believes a Sheriff’s Office should not only enforce the law, but also lead the way in professionalism and innovation. Darin is committed to ensuring the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office is a leader in the law enforcement community—setting high standards in training, accountability, and service delivery.

Endorsements

“Captain Darin Rice possesses the skills, experience, and leadership qualities necessary to serve as the next Sheriff of Winnebago County. Throughout his 25-year career, Darin has served in every major division of the Sheriff’s Office, including Corrections, Patrol, Investigations, Training and Special Operations, Policy Implementation, and Critical Incident Management. This broad experience has given him a comprehensive understanding of the agency and the community it serves.

Currently overseeing the Field Services Division, Darin continues to demonstrate professionalism, integrity, and decisive leadership. His commitment to public safety, operational excellence, and community trust makes him exceptionally well-prepared to take on the responsibilities of Sheriff.

As my tenure as Sheriff comes to a close, I am extremely confident that Darin will lead the Sheriff’s Office with distinction and continue serving the citizens of Winnebago County with honor, accountability, and dedication.”

Sheriff John Matz