By Amir Ibrahim, Pendletonian Times
PENDLETON, Ore. — The Umatilla County Sheriff’s Office has been conducting a series of operations to clear out homeless camps on county property, including along Interstate 84 and in the vicinity of Pendleton’s downtown area. While the operation aims to improve public safety and sanitation, concerns have been raised about the availability of support services for those affected.
According to reports, multiple homeless camps have been identified and cleared out by the sheriff’s office, with dozens of individuals potentially impacted by the operation. However, it remains unclear how many people have been directly notified about the clearing process, and what specific resources are being allocated to support them.
The Umatilla County Sheriff’s Office has stated that they are partnering with social service agencies to provide basic necessities like food and water to those affected. However, details on the scope of these services and the duration of the operation remain scarce.
The sheriff’s office has not provided an official timeline for completing the clearing process, but officials have emphasized the importance of maintaining public safety during the operation. Law enforcement officials have also highlighted the need for de-escalation techniques and communication strategies when interacting with homeless individuals.
The Pendleton Police Department has not publicly disclosed its protocols for dealing with homeless individuals. However, many experts agree that law enforcement agencies should prioritize de-escalation techniques and community engagement over enforcement when addressing homelessness.