Butte-Silver Bow police tap veteran cop as new undersheriff

There’s a new undersheriff in town.

Jeff Williams, a 30-year veteran with Butte-Silver Law Enforcement, took the helm on April 1, replacing Mark St. Pierre, who retired on Dec. 4, 2025.

Williams, 52, joined the police force on Jan. 8, 1996, and rose through the ranks.

Starting out as a patrol officer, Williams would become a sergeant and by 2011, was promoted to lieutenant. Along the way, he held supervisory positions and was team leader for the Butte SWAT team. He was also lauded for his work with domestic abuse victims.

Williams’ most recent position was captain of the Investigative Division, overseeing major investigations and departmental operations.

B-SB Sheriff Ed Lester said he’s excited to be working with Williams.

“Jeff knows every aspect of our department,” said Sheriff Lester. “He’s a great example of someone who has worked his way through the ranks and earned the position of undersheriff.”

Williams said he plans to build on the foundation already established by his two predecessors, St. Pierre and George Skuletich, who retired as undersheriff in 2021.

Among Williams’ duties will be managing the day-to-day workings of the department.

“I’ll be managing and reviewing law enforcement policies and procedures,” he said.

Currently, there are 53 sworn officers, including three captains, eight detectives, two school resource officers and one public housing officer.

“There’s plenty to learn,” said Williams. “The scope of my responsibilities has grown.”

The new undersheriff believes his longevity as a law enforcement officer has given him the right tools to do the job.

Williams also credits his predecessor, St. Pierre, who stressed following law enforcement tactics and officer safety.

He said he will continue that path as well.

Williams said the goal of his office is to maintain a professional and respectful service to the community.

“I also want to make sure our officers are as healthy as they can be given the stress and trauma they are exposed to,” he said.

Even though its early, Williams said he feels comfortable in his new position.

“It’ll be a new challenge, but it’ll be good,” he said.