The Harney County Sheriff’s Office recognizes the importance of following state and federal recommendations to “flatten the curve” or slow the spread of COVID-19. Based on these recommendations and consultation with Oregon State Sheriff’s Association and other sheriff’s offices across the state, the Harney County Sheriff’s Office evaluated and adjusted its services and response to calls for service.

Effective immediately, Harney County Dispatch and Harney County Sheriff’s Office will be evaluating calls for service to determine if they can be handled by phone with a deputy or officer, rather than in person. For calls that require an in-person response, dispatchers will be asking whether you have a cough, fever, or other flu-like symptoms to prepare our emergency personnel who respond, whether it’s our fire departments, law enforcement, or Emergency Medical Services (EMS).

While each department within the Harney County Sheriff’s Office remains open, we have started limiting access into the Sheriff’s Office, jail, and probation office. Some services that we normally provide have been suspended until further notice, including jail visitation, fingerprinting (for employment, background checks, etc.), and issuance of Concealed Handgun Licenses (CHL). If your CHL expires during this time, call 541-573-6028 to receive an amnesty letter that will act in place of your CHL until these services resume.

Signs have been posted on exterior doors and windows directing people experiencing cough, fever, or flu-like symptoms not to enter. Anyone entering the sheriff’s office or jail will be screened with a thermometer.

Due to the current situation with COVID-19, some businesses are closed or have reduced hours and staff. This leaves them vulnerable to potential break-ins and looting. Law enforcement is looking to alter shifts where possible in order to provide 24-hour coverage.

We are calling on our community to help us support our local businesses by reporting suspicious behaviors and crimes to dispatch at 541-573-6028.

Thank you, Harney County!

NOTE: Further adjustments may be necessary, and we will continue to evaluate this daily. If you’re on social media, we have been posting these changes to our Facebook page as they occur.