Wasco and Hood River Sheriffs discuss regional collaboration on law enforcement programs

In a recent meeting of the Oregon State Legislature's Joint Committee on Addiction and Community Safety, law enforcement officials from rural counties discussed the critical role of regional partnerships in addressing addiction and public safety challenges. The meeting, held on March 7, 2025, highlighted the collaborative efforts between Wasco and Hood River counties, emphasizing the need for innovative solutions in areas with limited resources.

Sheriff Layne McGill of Wasco County opened the discussion by outlining the benefits of regionalization, particularly in rural areas where collaboration is essential for effective law enforcement. He noted that initiatives like the regional jail, Norcor, have saved millions and improved public safety through shared resources. McGill stressed that rural counties often face unique challenges, including sporadic service needs and limited staffing, making collaboration vital for delivering high-quality services.

Sheriff English of Hood River County echoed these sentiments, explaining the vast geographical area covered by their agencies, which spans over 3,000 square miles with a combined population of around 50,000. He pointed out that the sustainability of programs is a significant concern, as smaller populations may not generate enough volume to support extensive services. English emphasized the importance of a tailored approach to deflection programs, allowing counties to adapt strategies that fit their specific needs rather than following a one-size-fits-all model.

The discussion also touched on the implementation of the LEED (Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion) model, which aims to reduce repeat offenses among individuals struggling with addiction and mental health issues. Both sheriffs highlighted the importance of building relationships with community stakeholders and the need for ongoing support from state agencies to ensure the success of these initiatives.

Commander Hepner from the Hood River County Sheriff's Office added that the collaborative efforts have already shown promise, with established programs addressing various community needs. She noted that the partnership with the Criminal Justice Commission (CJC) has been instrumental in securing funding and support for these initiatives.

The meeting concluded with a recognition of the unique challenges faced by rural counties in Oregon, particularly in terms of resource allocation and program sustainability. Law enforcement officials expressed optimism about the potential impact of their collaborative efforts on community safety and addiction recovery, while also acknowledging the need for continued support and understanding from urban counterparts regarding the distinct needs of rural areas.

As the committee moves forward, the focus will remain on fostering these partnerships and ensuring that effective strategies are in place to address the ongoing challenges of addiction and community safety in Oregon's diverse regions.