PORT ANGELES — The longest serving deputy in the history of Clallam County has officially left the department after 31 years in the Sheriff’s Department and 34 years in law enforcement.
Undersheriff Fred DeFrang’s last day on the job was June 10, capping off a career where he served under six different sheriffs.
“I had a lot of interesting times, to say the least,” said DeFrang, 54.
Excited about change
DeFrang said he is excited about the change of pace and new experiences that come with retirement.
He plans to keep busy, but hasn’t made up his mind. That’s part of the fun, he said.
“It’s the right time of year,” he said.
“I feel like a high school graduate, just stepping out.”
He may start his own business, or he may work for someone else.
“I’m just going to take a little time to get focused,” he said.
“I feel like a kid in a candy shop. Everything looks good.”
DeFrang took his first badge and oath on the eve of his 21st birthday as a Port Angeles Police Department relief officer.
His first full-time law enforcement job was for the Sequim Police Department in 1972. He joined the Sheriff’s Department two years later.
DeFrang rose through the ranks to join command and administration in 1982 and was promoted to undersheriff in 2000.