OSSA Supports Douglas Co. Sheriff John Hanlin, Oct. 9

The Oregon State Sheriffs’ Association (OSSA) supports Sheriff John Hanlin, his deputies and the entire community of Douglas County during this very difficult time. However, most importantly we support the victims of this tragic event. The mission of OSSA is to support the Office of Sheriff in Oregon and to bring resources together in a time of need. In response to the incident at Umpqua Community College, Sheriffs from around the state pulled together to provide assistance, offers of resources and personnel from the inception of the incident and throughout the investigation. We understand there is a great demand for immediate answers and change, but rushing an investigation or making snap judgments does a great disservice to the victims, their families, and the community as a whole. Members of the Roseburg Police Department, the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, Douglas County Fire agencies and many other supporting law enforcement agencies were the first responders on a very gruesome and horrific scene. Dedicated deputies, police officers and medical personnel have handled the situation with the utmost professionalism in the face of complete heartache. Sheriff Hanlin and the investigative team have made decisions based upon facts from the scene and with the advice of the many committed public safety partners that are assisting in the investigation. We would like the victims’ families to know that we share in your grief. May God bless and comfort each one of you.