FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: November 17, 2023
Contact: Ken Smith, Public Relations Director
kenneth.smith@klamathtribes.com ; 541-783-2219 ext. 147
Klamath Tribes Department of Public Safety recognized as a Law Enforcement Unit by State of Oregon
CHILOQUIN, Ore. – The Klamath Tribes Department of Public Safety achieved a milestone and historic step for the Klamath Tribes Leadership, Tribal members, and their families. Tribal Public Safety Chief of Police Vernon Alvarez, on behalf of the Klamath Tribes, has been working on getting the Klamath Tribes DPS recognized by the State of Oregon and registered as a “Tribal Law Enforcement Unit.” On November 2, 2023, the Klamath Tribes received this confirmation from Erica Riddell, Criminal Justice Officer Specialist of the Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training, recognizing the Klamath Tribes Department of Public Safety as a Tribal Law Enforcement Unit in the State of Oregon.
Chief Alvarez will work with the DPSST for its final certification review. Establishing and implementing our Tribal Public Safety Department is an exemplary expression of our inherent sovereignty. The story of law enforcement in Indian Country transcends written history. It extends back to the dawn of time when this continent’s indigenous people sought order and balance in their lives. Chief Alvarez has been fortunate to work with our Tribal Leadership, General Manager George Lopez, and our Human Resource Department, who processed and hired our staff, Tribal Directors and their staff, who have been very supportive and forward- thinking regarding the establishment of the Klamath Tribes Department of Public Safety Department.
“It was a total team effort,” said Chief Alvarez. “We still have a long way to go, but we’ll get there.” The Klamath Tribes Department of Public Safety now consists of the Police Chief, one Police officer, two Fish and Game Officers, an Administration Assistant/Dispatcher, and an Emergency Manager. The Klamath Tribes were also awarded a 2023 COPS Hiring grant for one more officer. A Public Safety Building will be built and operational next year, 2024 or early 2025.
