Sheriff's Office News 
  
Hagg Lake is Open . . . For Good!

Marine Deputies Prepare for a Great Season

 

 

 

When you head to Hagg Lake this year, we know few people want a Marine Deputy to interrupt them with a citation.  We don't want that either.  Our goal is to keep everyone safe, not to raise revenue.  So here are a few insider tips to improve safety, save you a lot of money, and ensure more uninterrupted time on the water:

 

Failure to Use Life Jackets.  Cost of a Life Jacket:  $30.  Fine imposed for not having one:  $260.  Deputies respond every year to save people from drowning, but there are cases at Hagg Lake where people have died due to inexperience, drinking, or exhaustion.  These cases are completely preventable.  All children under 13 must wear a life jacket while on a boat; each adult must have one with them.

 

No Fishing License.  Cost of the license:  $33.  Fine imposed if you don't buy one:  $110.  The interesting twist - this unclassified misdemeanor charge turns into a mandatory arrest warrant if you don't pay your fine.  Yes, we have had the misfortune of having to take people into custody for this.  Please buy your license.

 

Hull Inspections.  Cost of a Hull Inspection:  PRICELESS.  No really, it's FREE.  Cost of not getting one:  inconvenience.  If boaters do not follow up on new registrations with a hull inspection, the registrations are often deleted.  Then boat owners have to start over in the registration process.  You can call non-emergency dispatch to have a deputy come to you (503-629-0111) or better yet, flag us down at Hagg Lake and we'll take care of it on the spot!

 

Where is the best place to cast your line?  Where the fish have been recently stocked!  The Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife posted a 2014 schedule already for restocking trout in local lakes.  You just might have about 18,000 reasons to visit Hagg Lake in early March.

 

Is the lake open year around?  Yes, after opening March 1 this year Hagg Lake will no longer close for winter.  You'll also see some improvements, such as new grass, improved beach access, and a playground near Boat Ramp C.  Plans are also underway to add 80 overnight campground sites near Ramp A within the next year.  We'll let you know when the sites are available.

 

Enjoy spring - we look forward to seeing you, your boat, your life jackets, and whole lot of fish!

 

  

 
Notice to Boaters at Hagg Lake
 
Boat Ramp A  is Closed
 
Notice to Boaters - March 5, 2013
  

Boat Ramp A is temporarily closed.   The dock has broken loose.  Please use C-ramp for a couple weeks to allow time for repairs.  

Where Can I Go Shooting?

 

When spring fever hits and people start to crave the outdoors, we know one popular question will return - where can I go shooting?  There are a wide variety of places you can legally practice with your firearm in Washington County, but not all of them offer the safety of a controlled environment.  Please do not discount the value of a controlled environment.  Every year we hear stories of accidental shootings during recreational target practice in uncontrolled areas.

 

Indoor Gun Ranges and Members-Only Gun Clubs

There are several commercial indoor ranges in the Portland Metro area that are open to the public for a fee.  These locations offer controlled shooting environments where strict safety rules are enforced.  Many offer classes and events for both new and experienced shooters.  Some indoor facilities offer simulator opportunities using real guns with recoil but no live ammunition.  Search for these locations on the Internet.

 

The Portland Metro area also offers privately owned "members only" gun clubs that offer a multitude of outdoor shooting options.  However, these clubs sometimes offer only long gun shooting and no handgun range time.

 

Shooting on Your Property

Shooting on your own property may be legal or unlawful, depending on location.  It is unlawful to discharge your weapon inside city limits or in residential areas inside the urban growth boundary (UGB).  (This includes ESPD and other areas.)  The tricky part is that the UGB shifts with city annexations and with legislation, so you have to monitor whether changes impact where you are shooting.

 

Current legislation and court decisions may also move more rural land into the UGB.  (Here is a link to more information on HB 4078 and an adjusted map from Metro.)  More decisions will be made in coming weeks and we will try to clarify where the rules for shooting will change.

 

Additional limitations apply within the county's Restricted Shooting District, which is north of Highway 26, from Cornelius Pass to approximately the Multnomah County line.

 

Before setting up a shooting range environment on your property, be sure you are within the law regarding the location, proper setbacks, and backstops.  ORS 166.220Unlawful Use of a Weapon, in part says: 

 

(1) a person commits the crime of unlawful use of a weapon if the person:

...

(b) intentionally discharges a firearm, blowgun, bow and arrow, crossbow or explosive device within the city limits of any city or within residential areas within urban growth boundaries at or in the direction of any person, building, structure or vehicle within the range of the weapon without having legal authority for such discharge.  Unlawful discharge of a weapon is a Class C felony.

 

Be sure to read the full text of ORS 166.220 to see if any exceptions apply to your situation.  We know this is not an easy answer, but at least we have pulled together the resources you need to research your property's location and the rules that apply.

 

You are responsible for every round you fire.  Be safe and within the law when engaging in recreational target practice. 

   
WANTED:  Explorer Search and Rescue Team Applicants

Information Meetings Scheduled

 

When a hiker, fisherman, hunter or any other person is lost, a plane goes down in an unknown location, or evidence needs to be located in a remote area, who you gonna call? Your Sheriff's Explorer Search and Rescue Team

People Get Lost ...

Explorers are young men and women, age 14 to 21 years, who have gone through extensive and challenging training.  Explorers are affiliated with Learning for Life, a non-profit organization.  Many schools give credit toward graduation for participation in this program.

 

Once accepted into the program, candidates must complete a 12-day full immersion training camp academy.  The academy is held in a wilderness park-like setting where Explorers train in all the skills they need to meet state standards for Search and Rescue personnel. 

 

Classes include land navigation, rescue techniques, man tracking, wilderness survival, first aid, rope-assisted rescue techniques, radio communications, and helicopter rescue operations.  Adult members of the Sheriff's Search and Rescue Team provide this critical training.

 

The Sheriff's Office Explorer program is a dual interest Explorer Post.  Members also receive training in law enforcement and have the opportunity to ride along with patrol and marine deputies, and support several of the Sheriff's Office special teams.  This is a great chance for young people to study law enforcement or public safety as a career while providing critical public service.

 

Watch our 2014 Training Academy video!

Candidates must bring their own boots, thermal winter clothing, jacket, and personal items.  Uniforms, packs, and all other equipment are provided.  Each member must also pay a $150 initial training fee, which is greatly reduced thanks to the generous donations of equipment and supplies from the community.

 

Visit the Explorer Post online to learn more about how to apply, the selection process, and training.  Be sure to join us for an informational meeting.

 

Family information meetings are scheduled for Monday, March 17, at 6:30 pm, or Saturday, April 5, at 10:00 am.  Both meetings will be held at the Sheriff's Office Hillsboro Headquarters, 215 SW Adams in Hillsboro.

 

For more information about Search and Rescue, contact Sergeant Dan Cardinal.  


Community News

 

stack of newspapers 366x600Man Threatens Patrons With Knife in Restaurant - Aloha

On February 22, patrons at El Tapatio Restaurant on Farmington Road in Aloha called 911 to report a man was threatening them with a weapon.  Deputies encountered a very drunk man who had been told to leave the bar.  He apparently returned with a knife and told several people he was going to kill them.  He eventually left, stopping in the parking lot to slash tires on an occupied vehicle.  He did not know the people inside.  A K9 track led to a nearby apartment complex.  Deputies located the suspect, who was uncooperative, and he was taken into custody after a physical struggle.  He was charged with multiple crimes.  No patrons were injured.

  

Bar Fight Ensues Over Unpaid Tab - Cedar Mill

A bartender called to report a customer refusing to pay his tab.  Deputies learned the suspect had been bragging to other customers at the Greek Village that he makes a living by stealing.  He told them he had no money and he was going to walk out on his bill.  When a deputy told him he was under arrest, he tried to get the drop on the deputy.  It didn't work out. The suspect, Gabriel Bucea age 35, was taken into custody and charged with Theft II, Resisting Arrest, and Assaulting a Police Officer.  He was also wanted on a Multnomah County warrant for DUII.

 

Accidental Shooting in West Slope

Deputies were dispatched to a reported accidental shooting just after 2:00 am.  Two adult men had been drinking, smoking marijuana, and playing Russian Roulette with a gun.  The game predictably ended in tragedy.

 

Observant Citizens Report Voyeur

Witnesses in a Target Store on Beaverton Hillsdale Highway reported a man following a 13 year old girl around the store on January 3.  He was taking photos up her skirt without her knowledge.  After interviewing the involved parties and viewing store surveillance video, Sheriff's Child Abuse Detectives were able to positively identify a suspect.  The suspect was arrested on February 12 and charged with Attempted Invasion of Personal Privacy and Encouraging Child Sex Abuse in the first and second degree.  He is currently in the Washington County Jail held on $20,000 bail.

  

Clarification - Sheriff's Office Members Are Not Involved in the Hillsboro Injured Dog Incident

You may have heard about an animal abuse claim that was made against an Animal Services Officer for injury to a dog last week. The incident occurred in the City of Hillsboro, so the Hillsboro Police Department is handling the investigation.  Please understand that Animal Services Officers are employees of the County Health Department and not the Sheriff's Office. This means our office is unable to respond to inquiries about the event or the investigation.   You may direct inquiries to Animal Services at (503) 846-7148.

 

 

Meet Corporal Kip Branch

The Oregonian recently interviewed Sheriff's Corporal Kip Branch, who works on the Sheriff's Crisis Negotiations Unit.

 

Other Headlines You May Have Missed

Compromise Emerges on Marijuana Local Control

Detectives Search for Sex Abuse Victims -- Bethany

 

 

View All Sheriff's Office Media Releases

http://www.co.washington.or.us/Sheriff/News/media-releases-by-sheriff.cfm

 
Honorable Service
  
Dear Citizens,
  
Your Sheriff's Office recently received two prestigious national awards.  They speak to the commitment, drive and teamwork of many people toward common and important goals. 
  
Washington County Sheriff's Office is Among Top in Nation
  
We also receive another type of recognition - perhaps more significant.  This speaks to the relationships and trust we have with you.  Almost daily, I receive e-mails, letters, or even Facebook posts complimenting daily work done by deputies and civilian staff.  Here are a few for this month:

 

Pastor - thanks patrol corporal for the way he dealt with a death investigationCOMPASSION

 

District Attorney - commends excellent investigation and reports on complex case. TENACITY

 

Motorist - appreciates how she was treated during traffic stop. PROFESSIONALISM

 

Local Business - commends detective's exceptional work to identify and locate burglar. SKILL

 

Citizen - thanks deputy for the way he listened to him and handled complaint.  LISTENING

 

Jail Visitor - thanks jail deputy and jail services tech for great service.  CUSTOMER SERVICE

 

Citizen - thanks Records and Sergeant for helping her escape a dangerous situation.  TRUST
  
Inmate's Relative - thank you for patience with language barriers, resolving stressful issue.   PATIENCE
 
We share your messages with our staff and their chain of command.  When someone raises the bar, we share the story with the entire agency.  It's not all positive, but constructive comments are catalysts for improvement that make us stronger - we share those too.
  
I hope you will take time to send a note when you interact with Sheriff's Office personnel and let us know how we're doing at taking care of you and the community.
  
Sincerely,
  
 
Sheriff Pat Garrett 
  

How to Yield to Emergency Vehicles

Police Behind DriverDriver Refresher

 

What happened last time you saw lights or heard sirens in traffic?  There is usually one driver who panics mid-intersection and stops, right there.  Then the siren blasts "BONK, BONK" and the flustered driver tries to move out of the way in some direction, but no cars are moving to make room.  Has that driver ever been you?  Ha ha, that's okay.  Here's how to ensure its always someone else from now on.

  

State law, ORS 811.145, says you must yield the right of way to any emergency vehicle (fire, police, ambulance) when they approach you from any direction using a light or siren.  What exactly does that mean?

 

When you see or hear an emergency vehicle, you must immediately drive as close as is safely practical to the right side edge or curb of the road, clear of any intersection, and STOP.  Stay stopped until the emergency vehicle has passed or until a police officer tells you to move.  The key is to pull to the right immediately.  Do not wait until they are on your bumper, and always pull to the right.

 

Practice by imagining yourself in the driver seat, with sirens blazing behind you, and picture yourself calmly and safely pulling to the right and stopping.  It also helps to verbally explain the law to someone else.  Now relax, you won't be "the one" who needed the "BONK, BONK" reminder from behind.

 

What About Roundabouts?

Do not enter a roundabout when emergency vehicles are approaching; pull over to the right.  Allow other vehicles to clear the intersection so the emergency vehicles can negotiate the roundabout.  Never stop inside a roundabout.  Instead, move through and exit.  Once out of the roundabout, pull over to the right shoulder and allow emergency vehicles to pass.  Now you know!

 

Because We're Neighbors

Updates from Your Crime Prevention Team

 

Crime Prevention logo  

  A map of burglaries in unincorporated Washington County, January 2014.

BURGLARIES

This map and list show residential and business burglaries for the month of February 2014 in unincorporated Washington County.  Addresses are rounded to the nearest hundredth block for security.  The data includes reports of break-ins of vacant outbuildings, sheds, and homes under construction, so people are not always in danger. Also, many calls are initially reported as burglaries, but do not turn out to be verified.

 

MARK YOUR CALENDARS

 

Recognizing Child Molesters Training, March 13, 7 to 8:30 pm

Thursday, March 13, Child Abuse Detectives will share information on Recognizing Child Molesters (video link)  at Christ United Methodist Church, 12755 NW Dogwood Street in Portland.  Please RSVP by e-mail or to (503) 846-2579.  Due to the course content, only adults are permitted to attend.  Printable flyer.

 

Drug Turn-In Event, April 26, 10 am to 2 pm

Your Sheriff's Office and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), are hosting a free prescription drug turn-in event at Bales Market Place Thriftway in Aloha from 10 am to 2 pm.  The 2012 National Survey on Drug Use and Health reports that 6.8 million Americans abuse prescription drugs.  That's more than the total number of people using cocaine, heroin, hallucinogens, and inhalants combined!  The study also found that most abusers take prescription drugs from family and friends - including raiding the home medicine cabinet. 

 

Kids Safety Fair and K9 Competition, June 21, noon to 3 pm

Save the date for this awesome annual competition by local police K9 teams (Noon to 3 pm).  We also offer a Kids and K9 safety fair (11 am to 1 pm).  This event has historically been held later in the summer, so we want to give you plenty of notice.  We'll have more details for you soon.

   

Visit our Community Calendar for details and other types of FREE Training and Safety Events

  
  
Inventorying Valuables - There's an App for That!

Recovering from Theft or Fire

 

If your home was burglarized or caught fire, could you compile a complete list of the personal property that was stolen or damaged?  Keeping an accurate inventory of your belongings has never been easier - and there's an app for that!

 

Several organizations developed tools to help homeowners catalog personal property.  The National Association of Insurance Commissioners developed an application for both the Android and iPhone.  It allows you to walk through your home and take pictures of rooms and items for inventory purposes.  The app also allows you to categorize items by room or other topic.  Captions for the photos let you record serial numbers or other important details.

 

So get started today with your most valuable items.  Start with vehicles, trailers, jewelry and collectibles.  Then move inside to items like appliances, electronics, hobby equipment, and sporting gear.  You'll be done before you know it.  All that's left is to save a copy by e-mailing it to a safe location or archive it as a PDF or e-book.

 

You never know when a disaster or burglar may strike, but you can be prepared with a current property inventory. 

  
Now Recruiting for Reserve Deputy Sheriffs

A Rewarding Way to Get Involved

  

Do you know someone who would make a great Reserve Deputy Sheriff?  We are seeking men and women to join our volunteer ranks in these important positions.  

  

Reserves are highly trained volunteers who assist regular deputies with their duties on patrol and in the jail; they also assist with many community events and special enforcement projects.

 

Applicants must be 21 years of age and free of felony convictions.  This is a lengthy and competitive selection process that includes written and physical tests, oral interviews, a background investigation, job shadows and medical and psychological testing.

 

Once selected for the program, reserve candidates must attend a 300 to 350-hour training academy that runs annually from January to June on Tuesday and Thursday evenings and some Saturdays.  Much of the training is the same as we provide to regular deputy sheriffs, and it is provided to Reserves free of charge in exchange for their volunteer service.  Following training, each reserve is expected to provide at least 20 hours of service each month. 

 

Please encourage men and women of the highest integrity to apply by April 30, 2014, to be considered for the January 2015 Reserve Academy.  Visit our Reserve Deputy webpage to apply online.

 

More Sheriff's Office Volunteer Opportunities

  
  
 
  

 

Dumb Crook Togetherness

 

Deputies arrested a woman for DUII a while back.  Her husband was in the car and quite intoxicated as well, so deputies gave him a ride to his home nearby. Along the way, the husband told the deputy he was really drunk because it was his birthday. His wife was driving because he was so "hammered". The deputy dropped him off crkapr10safely at his house and then returned to where the stop took place.

 

They called a neighbor to move the vehicle so it wouldn't get towed.  The neighbor could not start the vehicle because a security feature had been activated.  She called the husband to see how to fix the problem - and she said she was with the police. The husband offered to walk back over with another set of keys.

 

A little while later, the husband drove to the scene. He explained to deputies that he started to walk down his driveway and ran out of breath. So he turned around, loaded up his dog, and drove his truck over to "help out."  Husband and wife both ended up being arrested for DUII, blowing .14 and .13, respectively. 

 

Why did he bring the dog to help out? Maybe he knew he would need someone to drive the truck home.

 

This Month's "Most Wanted"  

Robert WorkmanRobert Chris Workman is 5'10", 205 pounds, with brown eyes. Convicted for Fail to Register as a Sex Offender, he has absconded on his post prison release. Last known address is in Tigard.

 

Wanted Poster

Kelly MooreKelly Wayne Moore is 6'01", 220 pounds, with gray hair and blue eyes. He is wanted for failing to appear on DUII and related assault charges. His last known address is in Tigard.

 

 

Wanted Poster

  
Do not approach these individuals. If you see them or have information, call the Sheriff's Office Records Unit at (503) 846-2700, or non-emergency dispatch at (503) 629-0111.

  

 

 www.sheriffsmostwanted.com

 

  
  
   
 
Washington County Sheriff's Office, Hillsboro, Oregon
Nationally Accredited by CALEA since 2004
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