Wildfire Preparedness

Wildfire Preparedness and Lee Falls Fire Update

Staying informed and prepared for potential fire incidents is crucial as we approach the peak of wildfire season. The recent Lee Falls fire reminds us of the importance of wildfire preparedness in our community.

The Lee Falls fire, which started on August 8, has brought to light the significance of being proactive in preventing and managing wildfires. As a community, we must stay vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect lives, property, and wildlife habitats.

In line with this, it's essential to have a comprehensive understanding of wildfire preparedness. This includes creating defensible spaces around homes, having an evacuation plan, and staying informed about fire danger levels and restrictions.

As we work towards enhancing our community's wildfire preparedness, it's important to remember that everyone has a role to play. By staying informed and proactive, we can mitigate the risks associated with wildfires and ensure the safety of our community.

For more information and updates on wildfire preparedness and the Lee Falls fire, please visit Washington County Current Incidents.

Meet Rip - Newest Member of the K9 Team

Join us in welcoming the newest Washington County Sheriff's Office family member - K9 Rip!

Rip, an 11-month-old Dutch Shepherd, has joined our team after coming to us from Law Dog Kennel. Rip's impressive lineage comes from two working dog parents, making him the perfect addition to our K9 unit. He will join Cpl. Akin on the team after completing his training in September.

Law Dog Kennel was previously home to some of our beloved WCSO K9s, such as Cpl. Akin's longtime partner Stark, Radar, and Tux.

We can't wait for Rip to continue the legacy and make a paw-sitive impact in our community alongside Cpl. Akin. Stay tuned for updates on Rip's journey as he serves and protects with the Washington County Sheriff's Office!

Shift Brief

Man Arrested After Cross-Country Investigation

In July 2024, a detective from the Sylva Police Department in North Carolina contacted the Washington County Sheriff’s Office to inform our agency about an adult male in Oregon using the internet in an attempt to communicate online with minors.

Read more...

Sex Offender Compliance Mission Concludes

Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies, spearheaded by the Sheriff’s Office Criminal Apprehension Team with support from the U.S. Marshals Service and Oregon State Police, recently combined their efforts during Operation Liger.

Read more...

Safety Spotlight

With school quickly approaching, we want everyone to do their part in ensuring a safe and fun school year by following these tips: 

Driving  

• Obey all posted speed signs and school flashing lights. 
• Slow down and be cautious near bus stops and where children congregate.  
• It is illegal to pass a stopped school bus that is loading or unloading students. Do not proceed until the red lights stop flashing.  
• Buckle up, and never text and drive! 
• Watch for bike riders turning in front of you without looking or signaling or riders coming from driveways or behind parked cars.  

Walking 

• Stop at the curb or edge of the pavement and look LEFT-RIGHT-LEFT before crossing a street. 
• Always use designated crosswalks and pedestrian signals. 
• Do not cross in front of a vehicle unless you know for sure the driver clearly sees you and has come to a complete stop. 
• Be familiar with your surroundings. STAY ALERT. 
• Always obey the directions of crossing guards. 
• Use sidewalks if available; if there is no sidewalk, walk on the left, facing traffic. 
• Wear bright, visible colors, and during dusk or at night, use reflective gear and carry a flashlight. 

Biking 

• Always wear a properly fitted helmet.   
• Pay attention to walkers and drivers around you. 
• Use designated bike lanes or ride on the right side of the road, going with the traffic flow.  
• Hand signals alert other vehicles in which direction you are traveling.   
• Wear neon, bright-colored, or reflective clothing and use lights.  

More information: https://bit.ly/3VXp10Z  

August 31 is recognized as International Overdose Awareness Day, an annual campaign to end overdose and raise awareness that drug overdoses are preventable. 

When responding to a suspected opioid overdose, our deputies are trained and equipped to help. They carry Naloxone (aka Narcan), a medication designed to help reverse the effects of an overdose within minutes. Our deputies respond alongside EMS to administer lifesaving aid and support those struggling with addiction. 

Join us in raising awareness and promoting action. Together, we can save lives and positively change our community. 

If you have concerns about a loved one’s drug use, talk to them – share your concerns. Addiction support and resources are available - www.washingtoncountyor.gov/addictions/opioids-and-overdose-prevention.   

For more information about this campaign, visit https://www.overdoseday.com/.  

Drive Sober

The Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over Campaign, which runs from August 16 through September 4, aims to educate people about the dangers and consequences of driving drunk.

Whether at home or traveling this summer, do not operate a vehicle if you’ve been drinking or under the influence.  

• Designate a sober driver and plan to use public transportation or ride-share service to get home safely.  
• If you are the designated driver, take it seriously.  
• If you see an impaired driver, call 911 as soon as it is safe to do so. 
• If you’re hosting a gathering, ensure all your guests have a sober ride home.  
• Do not let someone get behind the wheel if drinking. 

The Sheriff’s Office wishes everyone a safe summer and asks the public to be responsible when consuming alcoholic beverages or any other intoxicant. We can all do our part to keep our roads safe!  

Community Events

On August 10th, Washington County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) and Cornelius Police Department (CPD) staff helped distribute back-to-school supplies to students nominated by their schools.

The Back to School with a Deputy Program is an annual event where WCSO and CPD Cornelius work with staff from various Cornelius elementary schools to get students their necessary school supplies.

Back to School with a Deputy goes beyond supplies. It allows kiddos to interact and connect with law enforcement officers in a positive and supportive environment. Building these positive relationships fosters trust and creates a strong bond. 

We thank the City of Cornelius and the Sheriff's Office Foundation for their incredible support and generous contributions to this program. Their dedication has significantly impacted the success of Back to School with a Deputy. 

Washington County values a culture of equity, diverse perspectives, and life experiences. Our organization embraces innovation, collaboration, and work-life harmony. We offer job stability, a comprehensive benefits package, and an opportunity to serve and support our diverse community.

Currently, there are multiple ways to build your career at WCSO. Connect with our Recruitment Team to learn more about your perfect opportunity.

Visit Washington County Jobs for more information and to apply today.