Umatilla County sheriff wants more action and less talk from lawmakers
By Terry Murry on Thursday, September 28th, 2023 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
UMATILLA COUNTY – The Oregon Legislature is looking at issues surrounding fentanyl as well as the state’s mental health crisis during Legislative Days through Friday of this week. Umatilla County Sheriff Terry Rowan said he hopes some of the talk leads to action.
“We always call the jail the de facto mental health hospital, because there are no other resources available to us,” he said.
He also said the mental healthcare crisis is further complicated by those suffering from substance abuse disorder.
“Many of these psychotic folks have psychotic episodes relating to their drug use,” he said. “Instead of taking mental health medication, they’re self-medicating with illegal substances and amplifying the issue. If we can address the drug issue then that may help mitigate it. If we can also address the mental health issue and develop more resources, then maybe we can alter that path.”
