Shining a Light on Domestic Violence: Support and Resources

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and the Washington County Sheriff’s Office stands committed to protecting our community and supporting survivors year-round.

Domestic violence affects millions, transcending all backgrounds. This includes various forms of abuse—physical, emotional, financial, and more. The National Domestic Violence Hotline reports over 12 million people experience intimate partner violence annually.

If you or someone you know is affected, community resources are available through the Domestic Violence Resource Center and Family Justice Center. These organizations provide support through safety planning, counseling, housing, and financial resources.

You’re not alone—help is available. 

Let’s shine a light on this issue and support survivors during Domestic Violence Awareness Month and beyond.

Emergency Preparedness

Life might be a little easier if emergencies could be planned. Since they can't, preparedness is key!

Be prepared by signing up for emergency alerts in Washington County.

Be Safe, Be Seen this Halloween

As Halloween approaches, excitement fills the air for a night of trick-or-treating fun! To ensure everyone has a safe and spooktacular time, here are some important safety tips:

• Light up your costume with reflective tape or carry a flashlight or glowstick.
• Travel in groups and stay in familiar neighborhoods.
• Stay on sidewalks and be aware of traffic.
• Drive slowly and follow traffic signs.
• Stay alert when driving, especially near driveways and alleys.
• Put the phone away to avoid distractions.

For more safety tips, visit Safe Kids Worldwide.

Call 9-1-1 for emergencies or non-emergency dispatch at 503-629-0111 to report suspicious activity.

Shift Brief

September DUII Mission Recap

On September 27th, WCSO deputies and our law enforcement partners conducted a DUII mission to raise awareness of the dangers of impaired driving and honor fallen Washington State Trooper Christopher Gadd #927.

The one-day mission concluded with 169 traffic stops and 9 drivers arrested for DUII.

Our ongoing commitment is to keep you safe on the roadways of Washington County, and this mission was a strong reminder of the importance of responsible driving. DUII is 100% preventable—please choose to plan ahead, use a designated driver, or call a rideshare.

Happy Birthday, K9 Blitz!

Join us in wishing a happy birthday to K9 Blitz!

Blitz is a valued member of our K9 Team, which plays a crucial role in maintaining community safety. Whether tracking down suspects or locating missing persons, Blitz, and the entire team work tirelessly to protect and serve.

Our K9s undergo rigorous training, making them invaluable partners to our deputies. Help us celebrate Blitz's birthday and honor the important work of our K9 Team!

Training Our Deputies for Success

Training is essential to becoming a deputy with the Sheriff’s Office, and our survival skills instructors bring a wealth of expertise from various divisions, including jail, patrol, and investigations. They prioritize safety while teaching defensive tactics, emergency vehicle operations, and firearms in an immersive environment.

Our Public Safety Training Center (PSTC) in Hillsboro offers state-of-the-art facilities, including indoor firing ranges, mat rooms, classrooms, and a mock village for real-life scenario training.

Learn more at JoinWCSO.com.

We are invested in the well-being of our deputies.

Join our team and take advantage of our extensive benefits package, which includes:

• Veteran's preference
• Incentive and premium pay for education and special teams
• Bilingual pay
• Insurance coverage (medical, dental, vision, life, occupational life and long-term disability)
• Retirement benefits (PERS/OPSRP and deferred compensation)
• Tuition reimbursement
• Relocation assistance

Visit JoinWCSO.com for more information and to apply today.

Safety Spotlight

In recognition of National Crime Prevention Month, we're sharing tips to help keep your neighborhood safe:

• 9PM Routine: Each evening lock vehicles, doors, and windows. Bring valuables inside, including garage door openers.
• Package and Mail Theft Prevention: Choose in-store pick-up or have a trusted person collect your deliveries. Sign up for USPS Informed Delivery program to track mail and deliveries.
• Vehicle Theft Prevention: Lock your car, remove keys, and never leave it running unattended.
• Layers of Protection: Install security cameras, alarms, and Neighborhood Watch signs.

For more safety presentations or resources, visit our website.