09/04/2026
Tonight, I am unfortunately finding myself having to address false accusations and defend myself against claims that simply are not true.
I want to be very clear. I do not know who operates the YouTube account “Steve the Monkey Trainer.” Whoever is responsible for that account is not part of my campaign and should stop producing the videos immediately. I have never authorized, directed, coordinated, requested, or approved any content posted by that account.
Any accusation or suggestion otherwise is false.
I am responsible for my words, my actions, and the conduct of my campaign. I will not accept responsibility for the independent actions of people on social media whom I do not know and do not control.
When my DD214 was inquired about I was fully transparent about my own military service, to include publicly releasing it. I respect Candidate McLaughlin’s military service. Any questions regarding his assignments, training, qualifications, or characterization of his service are only appropriate for him to address.
I have learned that ethics complaints have been filed against me regarding these allegations. I welcome a fair and thorough review of the facts. I am confident that any investigation will confirm exactly what I have stated from the beginning: there is no connection between me, my campaign, and the YouTube account “Steve the Monkey Trainer.”
Those who filed these complaints hoping to uncover such a connection are going to be highly disappointed.
My campaign is about the issues that matter to the people of Deschutes County, not false accusations, speculation, or attempts to connect me or my campaign to an anonymous social media account.
I will continue to run my campaign the same way I have led as Sheriff: with integrity, accountability, and transparency.
I will not allow false accusations or political distractions to take my attention away from what matters most. I will remain focused on serving the people of Deschutes County, leading the Sheriff’s Office, supporting and caring for the men and women who I serve alongside, and continue to earn the public’s trust.
Ty Rupert
Deschutes County Sheriff