What Happens Next Now That Sheriff Gootkin is Leaving? While it was announced on Monday that Gallatin County Sheriff Brian Gootkin would be leaving to head up the Montana Department of Corrections, the sheriff had actually already retired from his post last week. New Governor Greg Gianforte picked Gootkin to join his administration. In a statement released by the sheriff's office this week, Gootkin said, “I will miss serving the people of Gallatin County as Sheriff and our Sheriff’s Office family. I am honored and excited to be nominated by Gov. Gianforte to be part of such an incredible team!”