In the May, 2012 Issue:
How Well Do You Know The BCSO?
What is BCSO's Mission Statement? Our mission is to provide professional service and protection with honor and integrity.
What is BCSO's Vision Statement? Our vision is that we are valued as an exceptional Sheriff's Office (by both the residents and other law enforcement agencies). Sheriff Simpson and all of the Sheriff's Office employees have the vision that Benton County residents know and can expect excellent response and service.
What are the BCSO Values? Honor, Integrity, Ethics, and Professionalism.
Recent Events
The Benton County Sheriff's Office Reserves recently sponsored a Benton County Drug Take-Back event in April. This event provides a safe environment for the community to dispose of old and unused medications, keeping those drugs out of the hands of children, criminals, and out of the water system.
Thank you to those who participated in the event. The Sheriff's Office collected over 200 pounds of medications. A special thanks to our partners in this effort – Benton County Fairgrounds, Philomath Police Department, and Corvallis Public Works.
Department News
Congratulations to the Sheriff's Office for successfully passing the Oregon Accreditation Alliance audit. The auditors, retired Chief Joe Simon and Chief Ken Elwer, spent 1.5 days reviewing files and, with the exception of a missing proof and a technical detail, had absolutely no issues and no problems with the audit. This is a direct result of all of the hard work, diligence, and thoroughness in the way everyone within the Sheriff's Office does their job.
Special thanks go to Stacy Mellem for all of her hard work, particularly over the last few months to prepare for the audit. Certainly her attention to detail, her perseverance, and resourcefulness had a direct impact on the success of the audit.
Budget cuts affect Oregon Sheriff's Offices:
Budget cuts are affecting many Oregon sheriff's offices, often resulting in less patrol or other services and potentially shutting down jails and prisons. Sheriff Simpson mentioned at the State of the Office meeting in early January, that passing of the upcoming levy will be critical for Benton County to maintain the current level of patrol and jail services. The Board of Commissioners intends to put the levy renewal on the ballot in November 2012. Please consider ways that you can help in the successful renewal of the levy.
Swearing-In
Four new members have been sworn in to the Sheriff's Office recently. Welcome and congratulations to:
- Ryan Beyer—Reserves
- Breanna Schliebe—Reserves (to be sworn)
- Kyle Elliott—Marine Deputy
- Craig Nicholson—Marine Deputy
Law Enforcement
Who are you? Contributed by Lt. Clay Stephens, Benton County Sheriff's Office
There you are, at a mall, a parking lot, or on a sidewalk. You're just minding your own business, or so you say. You try not to look, but you're mesmerized, fascinated, and intrigued by what's happening. You move closer for a better look.
A person is on the ground being kicked, punched, and spit on. He's in a fetal position. He's trying to protect himself, but his attackers are too many. They swarm him. They land blow after blow. You wonder what he did.
Why doesn't someone do something, say something, or call 911? You look around and see others like you; men, women, old and young, just regular people like you. Why are they just standing there watching? The assault continues. You no longer wonder why the person is being beaten.
There is a line inside of you. You see it and feel it. You can't remember how it got there, but it's always been there. The line goes all the way around you. It's a circle with you in the middle, but not now. No. You're right at the edge of your circle. It's frightening because everything in the circle is you. It's safe, it's comfortable and it's warm. Across the line is still you, but a very different you. You haven't had to cross the line very often in your life. You remember in grade school when that bully was bothering your friend. And the time when you stepped in between that mean dog and the little girl next door.
You didn't like crossing the line then, and it's just as frightening now. Why me? Why do I have to do something? Why not someone else? You try to tell yourself this is none of your business, but something in your mind says it is. You try to ignore it, but it pesters you. The assault continues.
You realize after a moment that it's voices from the past that are prodding you forward. Your grandfather, your mother, that teacher or coach. They're reminding you of the ethics they taught you. They're right there with you, watching you. They're waiting to see if you were worth their effort.
You don't always get to choose your daily experience, but you always get to choose the decisions you make. Those decisions define you, your heritage, and your future. Show me who you are.
Corrections/Jail Division
The Board of Commissioners approved funding up to $70,000 to hire a consultant to do a new jail study. The purpose of the study is to determine size, programs, efficiencies, operations, co-locating of agencies and so on.
The Benton County Jail was awarded a grant by the Willamette Criminal Justice Council to facilitate the purchase of new portable breathalyzers. Commonly referred to as "mobats", the jail utilizes them to test the intoxication level of offenders reporting into jail and sometimes to determine if a new arrest needs to be medically cleared at the hospital prior to acceptance into the jail. The jail would like to thank WCJC for this contribution.
Deputy Andrew Formiller and Deputy JR Bier represented the jail in the annual Polar Plunge to raise money for Special Olympics of Oregon. Thanks to their efforts and dedication, as well as everyone else who participated or donated to this worthwhile cause, the Oregon Law Enforcement Plunge raised over $54,000. Way to represent!!!
Parole & Probation
During the recent legislative session, the 2011 – 2013 statewide Community Corrections budget was restored to full funding. The statewide Community Corrections budget had been cut 3.5% at the beginning of the biennium. Had these cuts not been restored, Benton County would have been required to make significant reductions in treatment funding and other services.
Emergency Services
Benton County Emergency Services completed the initial damage assessment for the County from the winter storm which blew through January 19 – 23. Individual losses and damaged infrastructure both topped $4 million dollars. Including damages to watersheds and agricultural losses, the total estimate for damage is $10,422,981. Representatives from FEMA also toured Benton County to do individual and public assistance evaluations.
Investigations
The Mounted Posse continues to aid in the care and feeding of "Big Easy", a horse rescued from the Monroe area. BCSO Animal Control Deputy Erica O'Neill responded to a call and discovered several horses receiving minimal care in the absence of their owner. "Big Easy" was suffering from malnutrition and other medical issues and was transported to the barns at the Benton County Fairgrounds.
The Benton County Sheriff's Office participated in a multi-agency investigation and assisted other law enforcement personnel from the Willamette Valley and other parts of Oregon, with serving warrants which resulted in the arrest of 17 people for racketeering and money laundering in what police said was the largest drug raid in this area. According to the Oregon Department of Justice, the search warrants are the culmination of a nine-month investigation into a highly organized and sophisticated illegal drug trafficking and racketeering distribution enterprise.
BCSO Celebrates Annual Awards
The Benton County Sheriff's Office recognized excellence and above-the-call-of-duty actions at the 10th annual BCSO Awards Ceremony held February 9, 2012.
Receiving Life Saving Awards were Deputies Kyle Cooper and Adam Brenneman who, on September 4, 2011, came to the rescue of a group of teenage girls rafting on an air mattress on the Willamette River. One girl was in imminent danger. Without the decisive and direct action of both deputies she would most likely have drowned. Her life was saved by the professional response of these two deputies
Deputy Christopher Dale reacted in a positive and professional manner to a medical emergency, attempting to reduce the risk of loss of life of another person. The situation demanded immediate action and Deputy Dale acted decisively and resourcefully. For his actions that day, Deputy Dale received the Medal of Valor.
Receiving Distinguished Service Awards were Deputies Joel Pickerd, Sarah Ingalls and Ryan Roth. These three Parole and Probation Officers developed and implemented a coordinated team approach to effectively and successfully transition offenders from state and local custody to the community.
Recognized as the BCSO Employee of the Year was Captain Gail Newman. She was acknowledged for her "tremendous example of character, integrity and ethics." Through her leadership, the Parole and Probation Division of the Benton County Sheriff's Office is a recognized leader in the State.
Each Division within the Sheriff's Office also recognizes an Employee of the Year. Honored this year were:
- Sergeant Toby Bottorff, Law Enforcement Employee of the Year for demonstrating excellent leadership and detective skills, particularly during several difficult investigations.
- Deputy Melissa Werdell, Jail Employee of the Year for demonstrating leadership in her commitment, willingness to take on new assignments, positive attitude and generosity.
- Lt. Justin Carley, Parole & Probation Employee of the Year for being unwavering in his ethics, integrity and professionalism, both on and off the job, and for leading by example.
- Katie Cooper, Emergency Services/Support Services Employee of the Year for always going above and beyond what is reasonably expected, for taking on new challenges, and for her enthusiasm, energy and cheerfulness.
Also recognized this year was Lt. Clay Stephens, who received an Oregon State Sheriff's Association Supervisor of the Year Award. This statewide award is selected by an Awards Committee comprised of Sheriffs throughout the state who look for outstanding leadership, innovation, commitment and exceptional performance.
The BCSO Volunteer of the Year Award usually goes to one individual. But this year it was awarded to the entire Benton County Sheriff's Office Tracking Unit for their outstanding performance in assisting the Sheriff's Office in two separate homicide investigations. Their assistance and teamwork with investigators played a critical role in the successful arrest of suspects in both incidents. Unit members recognized were: Blaine Brassfield, Linda Balzer, Mark Balzer, Scott Balzer, Bill Duncan, Jonald Gradwohl, Kristen Gradwohl, and Marvin Martin.
This year's Search and Rescue Unit Volunteer of the Year awards were awarded to the following individuals:
- Corvallis Mountain Rescue Unit Volunteer of the Year: Jonathon Hoy
- Mary's Peak Search and Rescue Volunteer of the Year: Tim Hale
- BCSO Mounted Posse Volunteers of the Year: Bill Duncan and Karin Kruger
Also recognized at this year's event was Matt Thomas. While observing court proceedings in the Courthouse on November 15, 2011, Mr. Thomas rushed to the aid of an elderly gentleman who collapsed unconscious in the courtroom. He began life saving measures until relieved by medical personnel. For his quick actions, Mr. Thomas was awarded the Sheriff's Office Citizen Public Service Award.
Congratulations to all those members of the Benton County Sheriff's Office recognized for their well deserved awards!
Commendations
Oregon State Police and the Newport Fish and Wildlife thank and commend Deputy Brent Iverson for his invaluable knowledge of the Benton County area and the people. "His actions jump-started the case again and allowed the Troopers to get additional information which ultimately resulted in probable cause for arrests….Deputy Iverson provided a very high level of inter-agency cooperation. We deeply appreciate his efforts and his dedication to Oregon's natural resources." Great job, Deputy Iverson!
Deputy Megan Hussey provided a Personal Safety presentation to the brokers at Town and Country Realty. Thanks are extended and appreciation for Deputy Hussey as a "wonderful speaker, and so informative." Brokers are often out in the county and have to rely on instincts so "believe one can never hear enough about safety in [their] industry.
The Berg Family extends thanks to all the Deputies 'for taking care of our family' during a water rescue in the Willamette River in January. Much appreciation to: Sgt. Ryan Moody, Sgt. Randy Hiner, Sgt. David Peterson, Deputy Edward Nowak, Deputy Eric Konzelman, Deputy Aaron Gevatosky.
Sheriff Simpson spent time with the Webelos of Pack 325, who appreciated and learned a lot from her talk about what she and the entire BCSO do for the community.
Sgt. Toby Bottorff was commended on being nominated as the 2011 DRE Officer-of-the-Year award. The DUII Multi-Disciplinary Training Task Force recognized Sgt. Bottorff's accomplishments and commitment toward DUII enforcement and in making Oregon roads safer. Congratulations!
The Harper family sends thanks and compliments on the outstanding efforts, "professionalism and service to the community" to Deputy Brad Dyke, Deputy Adam Miller and Deputy Edward. "It is nice to know we have the support of your wonderful office. Keep up the great work!" Sheriff Simpson adds "Clearly your commitment to professionalism, commitment, and perseverance led to the successful outcome for this family."
A Corvallis resident thanks Deputy Brent Iverson, Deputy David Iverson, and Cpl. Brian Morrisette and credits them with saving his life in 2011. After his arrest for Failure to Appear, they supported him through alcohol withdrawals, ensured medical attention, and ensured he made his court dates. He much appreciates the support of the Sheriff's Office and staff at the Benton County Jail and hopes that one day he can take AA meetings into the jail to share his experience.
Erik Rau received thanks for 'driving the extra distance' in escorting a FEMA representative out into the County after the January flooding and disaster evaluation.
Safety
Parents play a key role in developing safe practices and are ultimately responsible for the behavior and safety of their children. Because isolated lessons and concepts can be quickly forgotten, repetition will help children remember standard safety procedures.
Parents can teach their children the Eddie Eagle program at home. Simply call the Eddie Eagle Program at 800-231-0752 and request a sample kit. Each kit includes a copy of the student workbook, instructor's guide, program statistics, a description of materials, an order form, and the Parents' Guide to Gun Safety brochure.
Parents' Guide To Gun Safety
This text is also available as a brochure. To receive a copy of the "Parents' Guide to Gun Safety" brochure, email eddie@nrahq.org or call (800) 231-0752.
The Parents' Responsibility
In a home where guns are kept, the degree of safety a child has rests squarely on the child's parents.
Parents who accept the responsibility to learn, practice and teach gun safety rules will ensure their child's safety to a much greater extent than those who do not. Parental responsibility does not end, however, when the child leaves the home.
According to federal statistics, there are guns in approximately half of all U.S. households. Even if no one in your family owns a gun, chances are that someone you know does. Your child could come in contact with a gun at a neighbor's house, when playing with friends, or under other circumstances outside your home.
It is critical for your child to know what to do if he or she encounters a firearm anywhere, and it is the parents' responsibility to provide that training.
Talking With Your Child About Gun Safety
There is no particular age to talk with your child about gun safety. A good time to introduce the subject is the first time he or she shows an interest in firearms, even toy pistols or rifles. Talking openly and honestly about gun safety with your child is usually more effective than just ordering him or her to "Stay out of the gun closet," and leaving it at that. Such statements may just stimulate a child's natural curiosity to investigate further.
As with any safety lesson, explaining the rules and answering a child's questions help remove the mystery surrounding guns. Any rules set for your own child should also apply to friends who visit the home. This will help keep your child from being pressured into showing a gun to a friend.
Toy Guns vs. Real Guns
It is also advisable, particularly with very young children, to discuss gun use on television as opposed to gun use in real life. Firearms are often handled carelessly in movies and on TV. Additionally, children see TV and movie characters shot and "killed" with well-documented frequency. When a young child sees that same actor appear in another movie or TV show, confusion between entertainment and real life may result. It may be a mistake to assume that your child knows the difference between being "killed" on TV and in reality.
If your child has toy guns, you may want to use them to demonstrate safe gun handling and to explain how they differ from genuine firearms. Even though an unsupervised child should not have access to a gun, there should be no chance that he or she could mistake a real gun for a toy.
What Should You Teach Your Child About Gun Safety?
If you have decided that your child is not ready to be trained in a gun's handling and use, teach him or her to follow the instructions of NRA's Eddie Eagle GunSafe® Program. If you find a gun:
STOP!
Don't Touch.
Leave the Area.
Tell an Adult.
The initial steps of "Stop" and "Don't Touch" are the most important. To counter the natural impulse to touch a gun, it is imperative that you impress these steps of the safety message upon your child.
In today's society, where adult supervision is not always possible, the direction to "Leave the Area" is also essential. Under some circumstances, area may be understood to be a room if your child cannot physically leave the apartment or house.
"Tell an Adult" emphasizes that children should seek a trustworthy adult, neighbor, relative or teacher -- if a parent or guardian is not available.
The NRA's Eddie Eagle GunSafe Program includes an instructor guide, activity books, poster, and an animated video to explain its four-step safety message. For more information about the program, visit www.nrahq.org/safety/eddie or call (800) 231-0752.
Basic Gun Safety Rules
Although the NRA has complete gun safety rules available for specific types of firearm use (hunting and competition, for example), the following three rules are fundamental in any situation. Whether or not you own a gun, it is important to know these rules so that you may insist that others follow them.
- Always keep the gun pointed in a safe direction. Whether you are shooting or simply handling a gun, never point it at yourself or others. Common sense will tell you which direction is the safest. Outdoors, it is generally safe to point the gun toward the ground, or, if you are at a shooting range, toward the target. Indoors, be mindful of the fact that a bullet can penetrate ceilings, floors, walls, windows, and doors.
- Always keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot. When holding a gun, rest your trigger finger outside the trigger guard alongside the gun. Until you are actually ready to fire, do not touch the trigger.
- Always keep the gun unloaded until ready to use. If you do not know how to check to see if a gun is unloaded, leave it alone. Carefully secure it, being certain to point it safely and to keep your finger off the trigger, and seek competent assistance.
Where to Get Training
The time may come when you or your family members want to learn how to handle and shoot a gun safely. In the case of a child, his or her attitude, learning ability, and physical and emotional maturity are some of the factors to be weighed before allowing formal instruction to begin.
When a parent decides a young person is ready, many training opportunities are available. For more information on Youth Programs, call (703) 267-1505.
Providing instruction in the safe handling, use, and storage of firearms is one of the NRA's most important functions. Basic Firearm Training Courses, taught by over 54,000 NRA Certified Instructors, are offered in every state. A program called "FIRST Steps" (Firearm Instruction, Responsibility, and Safety Training) provides a three-hour orientation to your specific firearm. For more information about taking any of these courses, call (703) 267-1430.
Gun Owners' Responsibilities
Most states impose some form of legal duty on adults to take reasonable steps to deny access by children to dangerous substances or instruments. It is the individual gun owner's responsibility to understand and follow all laws regarding gun purchase, ownership, storage, transport, etc. Contact your state police and/or local police for information regarding such laws. If you own a gun and do not know how to operate it, do not experiment with it. Point it in a safe direction, keep your finger off the trigger, and store it securely. Seek competent assistance and instruction at once. An untrained adult can be as dangerous as a curious child.
Store guns so that they are inaccessible to children and other unauthorized users. Gun shops sell a wide variety of safes, cases, and other security devices. While specific security measures may vary, a parent must, in every case, assess the exposure of the firearm and absolutely ensure that it is inaccessible to a child.
This webpage is not intended as a complete course in gun safety and is not a substitute for formal, qualified instruction in the handling, use, or storage of firearms. The guidelines herein should be considered options to minimize the chance of an accident occurring in the home.
The Eddie Eagle GunSafe® Program
National Rifle Association
11250 Waples Mill Road
Fairfax, VA 22030
(800) 231-0752
eddie@nrahq.org
Concealed Handgun Licensing
As of March 1, 2011 applicants for both new and renewed concealed handgun licenses must provide proof of citizenship. Citizens are required by law to have a license to carry concealed handguns. The first step in the process is to obtain an application packet, available from the Sheriff's Office Records or by downloading the PDF form from the BCSO web page. The Admin/Support Services division of the Sheriff's Office is responsible for issuing Concealed Handgun Licenses. Each application is reviewed by the Sheriff for approval. To qualify you must NOT be:
- Convicted felon
- Convicted of misdemeanor within last four years
- Determined by a Court to be mentally ill
Previously, the applicant had to check a box to indicate they wanted their personal information withheld from a public records request. However, in the 2012 Legislative Assembly, a new law was passed that now makes Concealed Handgun Licenses information confidential.
