Sheriff Discusses Managing Three High-Profile Murder Cases

BOISE, Idaho — In an unprecedented span of three years, Ada County has faced three high-profile murder cases, each presenting unique challenges for local law enforcement. Sheriff Matt Clifford discussed these cases, highlighting the complexities of managing notorious criminals like Lori Vallow and Bryan Kohberger.

Ada County Jail houses more than a thousand inmates despite being designed for fewer than 900, placing additional pressure on Sheriff Clifford and his team. Clifford remarked, “It was a little more challenging. It was our first taste of ‘OK.’ There are a lot of eyes on this.” He emphasized the importance of safeguarding the community and the jail’s reputation.

Lori Vallow and her fifth husband, Chad Daybell, faced separate trials related to the deaths of Vallow’s children, J.J. and Tylee, as well as Daybell’s first wife, Tammy. These trials were conducted a year apart. “We did a good job; now we have a blueprint; comes no problem,” noted Clifford.

However, the case involving Kohberger, accused of killing four University of Idaho students, added another layer of complexity. “When Kohberger showed up, we knew this is even bigger,” Clifford explained. “We have this blueprint, but it’s got to be beefed up on steroids.”

The sheriff acknowledged the need for extra precautions, stating some inmates may wish to harm high-profile criminals. “We have to keep them away from people because there’s going to be someone in that facility,” Clifford said.

Clifford praised his staff for their professionalism, saying, “You’re not allowed to talk to TMZ. You’re not allowed to take photos or do inappropriate things with these videos.” He recognized the importance of maintaining the rights of all inmates, regardless of their charges. “I’m super proud of how they handled everything,” he added.

Although Kohberger’s defense team accepted a plea deal that limited the trial’s duration, Sheriff Clifford said they were prepared for an extended legal process. “We had a great plan. Some of that plan included maybe reaching out to other agencies to say, ‘Hey, can you help us with some bodies?’” he explained. Despite being the largest agency in the state, Clifford emphasized that the Ada County Sheriff’s Office is not immune to needing assistance.