Undersheriff Michael Kittilstved has served in law enforcement since 1995. His entire career has been with the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office and has included assignments in patrol, traffic, investigations, tactical units, and administration.
While assigned to traffic, he worked as a deputy and a certified collision reconstructionist; he was promoted to detective in 2002 and sergeant in 2003.
In spring 2001, he was assigned to the Explosives Disposal Unit (Bomb Squad). He completed Hazardous Devices School recertification and is currently a certified bomb technician. He currently serves as the Bomb Squad Commander and is a member of the National Bomb Squad Commander’s Advisory Board.
In September 2006, Undersheriff Kittilstved was chosen to supervise and implement the newly formed FBI Safe Streets Task Force and was assigned to that unit until June 2020. He also supervised task force officers assigned to the DEA and FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force. He has been an active participant and supporter of community and faith-based prevention and intervention programs for at-risk youth.
Undersheriff Kittilstved is currently serving as the Downtown Precinct Commander. The scope of his command responsibilities includes Unincorporated Patrol, School Resource Deputies, Traffic, Crime Prevention, Office of Professional Standards, Courthouse/Campus Security and the Civil Division.
He is also the Special Operations Group Commander, which encompasses the Spokane Regional Air Support Unit, SCSO K9 Unit, SCSO SWAT, SCSO Hostage Negotiator’s Unit, SCSO TAC Team, and the Spokane Bomb Squad. In addition, he serves as a member of the Department of Emergency Management Operations Group.
His experience working with multiple agencies and community groups has assisted in creating many relationships. These strong relationships help in finding solutions to problems and communicating the vision of the agency.
Undersheriff Kittilstved has received numerous formal awards and commendations to include a National Top Cops Honor, Spokane County Sheriff’s Office Medal of Valor, and the Medal of Merit. Undersheriff Kittilstved earned his bachelor’s degree from Gonzaga University in 1997.