Greetings from the Sheriff. Here again to share some news and updates from the WCSO. We are happy to say we once again have a deputy at the Johnson Park substation on Tuesdays from 3-5 p.m. If you need to fill out an accident report, vacation house check form, etc., or want to talk to a deputy in person, this is a good time to stop by.

Deputy Mark Hake is our newly assigned School Officer Liaison. The Sheriff's Office is dedicated to having a deputy assigned as a liaison officer for the schools and although he is not assigned full time, will be actively involved building a rapport with students and staff and being a resource and bridge between the schools and the Sheriff's Office. Lately he has been conducting traffic around the schools with the goal of increasing safety for students and staff alike. Beyond traffic enforcement however, he will be a positive presence in the schools and available to address issues that could otherwise escalate into problems or safety concerns.

We now have two chaplains on board for Wahkiakum County first responders. Irene Martin from St. James and Pastor Rick Ballif from Valley Bible Church are serving as Volunteers In Police Service (VIPS) and have made themselves available to the Sheriff's Office, coroner, and emergency responders at scenes involving major trauma or grief. Folks who wish to have a chaplain with them during a traumatic event or first responders who request the assistance of a chaplain will now have one by their side thanks to these two volunteers. What a great service to provide to our county residents. Please thank them when you have a chance.

We are in the process of creating a “cattle owner contact” list. There are a lot of loose cattle/livestock calls we respond to, and by having a contact list readily available, we can resolve the issue quickly. If you own cattle or livestock please take a quick moment to give your name, address, and phone number to the Sheriff's Office. You can also sign up at our website at: http://www.co.wahkiakum.wa.us/depts/sheriff. Click on the Livestock list on the left. This will ensure we have the most direct way to get a hold of you if your livestock have escaped!