For Immediate Release
| PR #: | 2000035 |
| Date Issued: | Mar 17, 2020 - 4:40pm |
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Sheriff Balaam urges calm, pledges Sheriff's Office support during COVID-19 response |
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| CONTACT: | Bob Harmon Washoe County Sheriff's Office Office 775-785-6235 Cell 775-722-5517 |
"Please don't lose sight of the fact that we are all in this together and we will get through this together."
Washoe County Sheriff Darin Balaam issued the following statement this afternoon, pledging the Sheriff's Office support during the COVID-19 response:
"I completely understand how rapid changes in information and personal restrictions during the global response to COVID-19 have been, and continue to be, extremely stressful to the Washoe County community. I want residents to know that the Sheriff's Office is here to help."
"Our law enforcement and patrol operations continue as normal even though we have limited some of our office and administrative functions as part of overall efforts to control the spread of the virus. As always, our top priority is the well-being of our employees and those we serve."
"I have authorized the use of the Sheriff's Office Citizen Corps Volunteer Program to assist the county's elderly and vulnerable populations in our community as needed."
"My office will work with the Regional Emergency Operation Center's Incident Management Team and other regional partners when applicable to help identify those in need and to implement a procedure for the delivery of food and other essential items using our volunteers."
"As the need for personal sacrifice increases, the likelihood for public concern and questions increases as well. Look after your loved ones, help us ensure that no one gets left behind."
"We need to take care of each other. I encourage residents not to hoard, but to help. If you know of someone who needs assistance to get through this, help them in any way you can. Never lose sight of the fact that we are all in this together and we will get through this together."
"My staff and I continue to follow developments in the county's COVID-19 response. We will provide daily afternoon updates from my office to the public."
"Lastly, I want to remind residents who find themselves in need of emergency services from 911 and who may be suffering from influenza-like symptoms that, if possible and it does not immediately jeopardize your safety, please inform the 911 call taker of those symptoms."
For a complete list of public statements issued by the Sheriff's Office, visit washoesheriff.com.
The Washoe County Sheriff's Office is dedicated to preserving a safe and secure community with professionalism, respect, integrity and the highest commitment to equality. Sheriff Darin Balaam is the 27th person elected to serve as the Sheriff of Washoe County since the Office was created in 1861. The Washoe County Sheriff's Office strives to ensure public safety by building trust and creating partnerships within the diverse communities in which we serve. We will promote the dignity of all people supported by our words and actions through open communication while fostering an environment of professionalism, integrity and mutual respect.