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Sheriff Gary Bettencourt

OREGON SHERIFF Magazine News

Sheriff Bettencourt began his law enforcement career with Gilliam County serving as a Reserve Deputy, Deputy, Undersheriff and appointed Sheriff. He was then elected to the Office of Sheriff and began his term in January, 2007. Prior to working in law enforcement, Sheriff Bettencourt was a Volunteer Fire Fighter for Silverton Volunteer Fire Department.

Sheriff Bettencourt has been instrumental in the development and implementation of the Washington/Oregon Regional Crime Task Force (WORC) for Gilliam County which allows organized and efficient use of local resources, manpower, updated technology and equipment that was previously not available. He currently serves on the executive board of this task force. Sheriff Bettencourt has implemented a narcotics detection K-9 program, resulting in several drug related arrests. Since implementing the graveyard shift, there has been a reduction in thefts and burglaries in the rural areas of Gilliam County.

"Since becoming Undersheriff and now Sheriff, the office has continued to grow in professionalism, consistency, fairness and efficiency for the betterment of all the citizens in our County. My door will always be open to the people of Gilliam County to help them with their law enforcement needs," Sheriff Bettencourt said.

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OREGON SHERIFF Magazine News

Summer/Fall, 2007 -- A vacant deputy position in Arlington has finally been filled after a lengthy search. Jesse Labenske has experience as a 911 call taker, firefighter and Marine Deputy. He will attend the DPSST Academy in January. We also welcome Travis Elton who began work in September as the Inmate Work Crew Leader. He transports inmates to and from the worksite and supervises their daily activities. Travis has years of experience in security and is currently a Reserve Officer with the City of The Dalles.

The week of July 23rd sheriff's office resources were stretched thin with an exceptional round of activity uncommon for such a small office. The week began with two arson fires followed by a 126 mph pursuit that ended in a foot pursuit. Later in the same week, a body was discovered floating in the Columbia River. Finishing the week was a road rage incident ending in gun fire with one person being struck in the leg by a 9mm bullet. The Gilliam County Sheriff's Office is thankful to the neighboring sheriffs for the support and assistance they provided.

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