UCSO prepares for the fair

By Terry Murry on Tuesday, July 25th, 2023 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories

HERMISTON – The Umatilla County Fair begins with its kick-off parade on Saturday, Aug. 5. Umatilla County Sheriff Terry Rowan says that since the fair moved to the Eastern Oregon Trade and Event Center, it’s made enforcing the law easier for his officers.

Rowan said moving a little bit out of town has cut down on the number of fence jumpers. In addition, at EOTEC, there’s more elbow room.

“It just seems like with it spread out a little bit more, it’s not so confining as well,” he said.

Sheriff’s deputies also are in contact with the vendors, to make sure they know to quickly alert them to any thefts as well as to ensure the merchandise that’s on display is appropriate. He added that criminal behavior, no matter how minor, doesn’t pay at the Umatilla County Fair.

“If you commit a crime on fair property, then you’re likely going to be trespassed for the entire week,” he said. “If they come back, then they’ll get arrested for trespass.”

The fair also hires private security to further keep things safe. Rowan pointed out those workers are at the gates, making sure those gaining entry aren’t bringing trouble in with them.