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
 

Closing out just over 13 years as the agency head of the Hermiston Police Department (HPD), 2024 was an exciting year for our team of hardworking women and men.  These dedicated servants have faced challenge after challenge especially with the last 5 years adversely impacting this profession each of us still believes is noble and just.

For the first time, patrol, which is the backbone of any law enforcement agency in our nation, grew each team by one officer to ensure we could safely transition from a 2-officer minimum coverage per shift, to having at least 3 officers on duty at any given hour.  Additionally, continued discussions with our partners at the Good Shepherd Health Care System should conclude in early 2025, and we are optimistic we will be able to establish at least 1-full time HPD patrol officer dedicated to the Good Shepherd campus and surrounding properties 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

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 closed out 2024 with a dedicated staff of 36 full-time sworn officers, 4 paid support positions, and 4 volunteers.  Of our full-time staff, 28% are bilingual meaning we can communicate with the majority of those we serve.

I have a great deal of respect and adoration for our supportive citizens and for those people who visit our community of over 20,000 residents.  I feel deeply honored and blessed to serve this community as your chief of police.

Sincerely,

Jason Edmiston

541-667-5107 direct line