Contact the Hood River County Sheriff's Office
&
Sheriff Joseph A. Wampler

OREGON SHERIFF Magazine News

Hood River Sheriff Joseph Wampler grew up and attended school in Hood River, Oregon. He began his law enforcement career as a corrections officer for the Hood River Sheriff's Office. He then worked through the ranks at the Hood River Police Department, ultimately earning the rank of Captain. When Sheriff Wampler was elected in 1993 (taking office in January 1994), he was the youngest sheriff in office, at the age of 39. He is now in this third term.

His interests include bow hunting, fishing and remote control aircraft. Sheriff Wampler also holds a pilot's license.

Back to top

OREGON SHERIFF Magazine News

April, 2009 -- The winter season started harshly in the Gorge with December's arctic blast. I-84 was closed west bound at Hood River for four days due to high winds and drifting snow causing thousands of holiday travels and shoppers from the East to be diverted via Hwy 35 around Mt. Hood in order to make it into Portland. Hundreds of trucks were stranded in the Hood River area.

Approximately 4 feet of snow fell in downtown Hood River alone, causing many street closers and traffic problems for those not prepared. OSP, Hood River Police, the Sheriff's Office, local public works and ODOT worked together for many days in order to keep traffic moving.

Though we did not have any major emergency issues in our area, contingency plans for emergency medical transportation and temporary shelters were evaluated. Hood River County was in constant communication with Oregon Emergency Management.

Thanks go out to our Patrol Crews and especially those working in our 911/Dispatch Center for your service to our community.

Our deepest sympathy and prayers go out to the families of OSP Sr. Trooper William Hakim and Woodburn Police Captain Tom Tennant who lost their lives protecting us. We are hoping a quick recovery for Chief Russell.

Back to top