Sheriffs’ group honors Ward
By Terry Murry on Wednesday, January 3rd, 2024 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
UMATILLA COUNTY – The Oregon State Sheriff’s Association has commended Umatilla County Sheriff Capt. Sterrin Ward for her work on developing a system to accept applications and issue permits if or when Oregon’s gun control measure takes effect.
Umatilla County Sheriff Terry Rowan, who is a named plaintiff in the federal lawsuit against Measure 114, said Ward’s work was invaluable in determining how to enforce the new law if it comes to that.
“We did not want to stand in the way of an individual’s constitutional right to protect themselves, family, and others,” Rowan said. “Captain Ward worked tirelessly, including after hours and weekends, to get the documents drafted so that the permitting agencies would have a consistent road map to allow for the issuance of the permit to purchase certificate.”
The OSSA said that Ward chaired the work group putting the plan together and is “one of the most knowledgeable resources in the state relating to the state process of issuing a concealed handgun license.”
Umatilla County Commissioner Dan Dorran said that Ward did all this while continuing to lead her division at UCSO, making her a “shining example of the commitment, drive, expertise, and selflessness that brings honor to the office of sheriff throughout Oregon.”
