Welcome to the Hermiston Police Department

Mission Statement
 

Without fear or favor and in partnership with our diverse community, we will create and maintain a safe environment with the reduction of crime through problem-oriented and community-based policing strategies.  The quality of life for those we serve takes precedent over our individual needs.

Message from the Chief
 

As your chief of police, I assume the responsibility of implementing policies and procedures consistent with observable best practices across the state and nation.  We are lucky to have a dedicated staff of 31 full-time sworn officers, 5 paid support positions, and 5 people volunteering.  Of our full-time staff, 29% are bilingual meaning we can communicate with the majority of those we serve. 

We were optimistic about 2023, yet our department had to once again, navigate several unanticipated hurdles.  The budgeting process this year was taxing and several additional changes in personnel meant patrol staff was operating at minimum staffing levels.  Since the summer of 2020, our department has watched (5) tenured officers accounting for nearly 90 total years of service and experience, get out of the law enforcement profession altogether.   

At the close of 2023, we had (5) brand new recruit officers attending the 16-week basic police academy.  We expect those officers to return in the spring of 2024 where they will undergo 12-14 additional weeks of in-house training.  The upside is the fact there are still people who are willing to don and doff the uniform each and every day in this noble profession.

As the population of Hermiston has now crested the 20,000 mark, we expect to grow our department to acceptable and safe levels to ensure the livability of those we are blessed to serve is not adversely impacted by a mismanagement or lack of resources.

I have a great deal of respect and adoration for our supportive citizens and for those people who visit our community.  I feel deeply honored and blessed to serve this community as your chief of police.

Sincerely,

Jason Edmiston – Chief of Police

541-667-5107 direct line