Veteran State Trooper Brian LaRoche Enters Dubois County Sheriff Race

Brian LaRoche, a Huntingburg resident and nearly 26 year veteran of the Indiana State Police, formally announced his campaign for Dubois County Sheriff on December 9, 2025. LaRoche identified as a Republican and urged local voters to back his bid ahead of the May 2026 primary. “I am excited to announce my candidacy for Sheriff of Dubois County as a Republican for the upcoming 2026 election,” he said in his announcement.

LaRoche listed a long record of law enforcement assignments and recognitions in explaining his qualifications. He is a veteran of the United States Army and the Indiana National Guard and holds an Associate of Science degree in law enforcement from Vincennes University. “During my career with the Indiana State Police, I have been assigned to the Connersville and Jasper Posts and the Criminal Investigative Section (Drug Enforcement Section),” LaRoche said. While at the Jasper Post he highlighted operational results and awards. “While at the Jasper Post, my record includes leading the district in OWI arrests for five consecutive years, receiving employee of the quarter for two separate quarters, and earning two Meritorious Service awards and a Lifesaving award.”

His résumé includes roles as a field training officer, squad sergeant, member of the TIP team, and K9 handler, and he currently serves as a road trooper. LaRoche has also held leadership positions in the Fraternal Order of Police Wood Capital Lodge and is a licensed sports official for high school football, basketball, and baseball. He noted local community ties and volunteer service, including membership at St. Marys Catholic Church in Huntingburg. “I understand the challenges facing Dubois County and the importance of building strong community relationships,” LaRoche said. He asked for support and votes in May 2026.

LaRoche is the third local law enforcement officer to enter the Republican sheriff contest this year, joining Deputies Tim Lampert and Jesus Monarrez. That three way field sets up a competitive primary that will shape law enforcement leadership and priorities in the county. For voters the race raises questions about continuity of policies on patrol operations, OWI enforcement, drug investigations, community policing, and oversight of the sheriff s office and county jail.

With the primary scheduled for May 2026 interested residents should follow candidate forums, review records and platforms, and engage with local officials on priorities for public safety funding, recruitment and retention, and community relations. The outcome of the Republican primary will determine which candidate advances to the general election and who will steward county law enforcement into the next term.