JCSO Weekly Update - Operations Bureau

Every day, citizens call the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office to report everything from assaults, to vehicle crashes, to suspicious persons.  As we move into the busy summer months, I thought it would be a good time to provide a few tips to help folks who need to report incidents to our office.

• First and foremost, please call to report suspicious activity or crime.  Many times, people tell us they wanted to call, but didn’t want to bother us with a minor incident because they know we are busy.  While it is true we are often busy, calls reporting crime or suspicious activity are very important.  It’s better for us to have the information so we can respond immediately if we are available.  When we have that option, we are more likely to stop a crime or identify a suspect. 
• When you call, please be patient and answer all of the dispatcher’s questions as thoroughly as possible.  This can be difficult, especially in a stressful situation.  But, the dispatchers use an effective system based on the specific nature of the problem.  This system allows them to collect the necessary information to provide to the responding deputies.
• If you are calling about a vehicle, try to have the license plate number and a description of the vehicle you are calling about, as well as a description of the driver.  Also, be aware of your surroundings so you are able to provide accurate locations and directions of travel.  This information is crucial for deputies responding to your call.
• Give a detailed description of the people in question.  This can include their behavior, appearance, clothing, age, and whether they have any distinguishing features such as tattoos or scars.  This information is all very helpful when it comes to locating the suspects, especially if they leave the area before we arrive.   
• If you witness an incident, please call even if you see someone else reporting it.  You likely had a different perspective and have valuable information to share.     
• Lastly – to reiterate – please call.  The information you provide, no matter how trivial it may seem, is important to us.  It may be the difference between solving a crime and not having any leads at all. 

Maintaining a safe community is a collaborative effort among law enforcement and citizens.  We value our relationship with the public and want to address the problems that affect you.  To report an emergency or crime in progress, call 911.  For all other matters, call the non-emergency dispatch line at 541-776-7206 or JCSO at 541-774-6800.

Thank you for your support.

Captain Nathan Sickler