Neighboring County Sheriffs Are Ponca Brothers

Tim and Tom Decker serve as sheriffs in Dakota and Dixon counties in Nebraska

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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Two brothers from Ponca, Nebraska, Tim and Tom Decker, are serving as county sheriffs in neighboring Dakota and Dixon counties. The brothers followed in the footsteps of family members who were also in law enforcement, with their great uncle, an uncle, and their father all having careers in policing. The brothers say they regularly cross paths while on duty and appreciate having each other to process the emotional demands of the job.

Why it matters

It's uncommon for two siblings to both hold the position of county sheriff, especially in neighboring counties. The Decker brothers' story highlights how family ties can shape career paths in law enforcement and the benefits of having a close colleague who understands the unique challenges of the job.

The details

Tim Decker was recently appointed as the Dakota County Sheriff after more than 15 years with the department. His brother, Tom Decker, has served as the Dixon County Sheriff for the past 5 years and has been with that department for over 20 years. The brothers say their path to law enforcement was influenced by family, with their great uncle, an uncle, and their father all having careers in policing. From working traffic to homicide investigations, the brothers regularly cross paths while on duty and appreciate having each other to process the emotional demands of the job.

  • Tim Decker was appointed Dakota County Sheriff earlier this month.
  • Tom Decker has served as Dixon County Sheriff for the past 5 years.

The players

Tim Decker

The newly appointed Dakota County Sheriff, having worked for the department for over 15 years.

Tom Decker

The Dixon County Sheriff, who has been with that department for more than 20 years.

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What they’re saying

“I think ever since I was a kid, I knew what I wanted to do. Be in law enforcement.”

— Tom Decker, Dixon County Sheriff (ktiv.com)

“We see a lot of bad stuff. People talk about emotional trauma or baggage, you hate to dump that off on somebody who's not prepared for it.”

— Tim Decker, Dakota County Sheriff (ktiv.com)

The takeaway

The Decker brothers' story highlights the unique bond and understanding that can develop between siblings who both choose careers in law enforcement, especially when they serve in neighboring counties and regularly collaborate on cases. Their shared family history in policing has shaped their paths and the support they provide each other in handling the emotional demands of the job.