Sheriff's Office

For Immediate Release

PR #: 2000063
Date Issued: May 31, 2020 - 7:52am

Sheriff Darin Balaam's statement on last night's events in downtown Reno

CONTACT: Sarah Johns
911 Parr Blvd
Reno, NV. 89512
Office: 775-785-6235
Cell: 775-391-0407

"Last night, a peaceful protest turned violent when a group of individuals threw rocks into Reno City Hall and a fire began. I am deeply, deeply disappointed and concerned. As Sheriff of Washoe County, my number one priority is the health and safety of this community - a community we are proud to live in and represent. What happened last night cannot happen again. Washoe County is a proud community - a community of diverse individuals who respect, honor and fight for one another every day. It has been this way my entire life.

These are challenging times and I understand there are people in our community who do not feel heard or seen. Let me tell these family members - I see you, I hear you and I will continue to listen. But we must listen to each other peacefully and respectfully. I implore Washoe County to not tolerate the violence we witnessed last night. While the curfew is lifted, now is not the time to return to the destruction of last night. This morning is the time to return to the hope and promise of a new day, to look at ourselves and each other and ask how we can be better. How we can listen to the words our brothers and sisters are saying - silently and out loud."

- Sheriff Darin Balaam


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.

###