Montesano, WA – The Grays Harbor County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents of severe impacts to public safety if proposed budget cuts move forward amid a projected $8.5 million county deficit for 2026.
According to Sheriff Darrin Wallace, the Board of County Commissioners has requested a $2.16 million reduction from the agency’s operating budget—cuts he says would “critically impair” law enforcement operations across the county.
If approved, the Sheriff’s Office says the plan could eliminate seven patrol deputies and two corrections officers, end 24-hour patrol coverage, and dissolve both the Investigations Division and the Drug Task Force. Deputies would shift to an “emergency-only” response model, with non-urgent calls handled by phone or not at all.
The county’s current staffing levels are already below 2021 figures, with just 4–5 deputies covering all unincorporated areas daily, from Ocean Shores to Oakville and Lake Quinault to Westport.
Wallace noted that further reductions could lead to booking limits at the jail—accepting only major offenders—which he warns may “increase crime countywide.”
Commissioner Vickie Raines has voiced support for maintaining patrol and corrections staffing, but no formal decision has been made. Residents are encouraged to contact commissioners with feedback.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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