Reflections from the Sheriff's Office

As we move into a new season, many of us at the Sheriff's Office have been reflecting on the last few months of calls for service in and around Missoula County. As most of you know, the Seeley-Swan area has experienced some of our biggest incidents recently. This is an important opportunity for me to not only sincerely thank the community and our Seeley-Swan Search and Rescue (SSSAR) but also applaud you on your willingness to help us save lives. 

The winter brought many challenges as a string of calls to the Lake Dinah area kept our SSSAR and deputies busy for several weeks. Sadly, two men lost their lives in an avalanche during that incident. On this call, the first on scene were civilians who were willing to help in the critical first minutes of this tragedy. These selfless acts have been plentiful over the last several months and I'm grateful to all those who played a role. 

We are fortunate to have very skilled search and rescue units in both Seeley Swan and in Missoula. We're glad we can offer these invaluable volunteers the tools and the training that is required to head out to rescues or recoveries in freezing temperatures and water. It's these folks, along with our deputies, who give those who are lost or hurt hope in surviving in harsh, unforgiving elements. Please know that we are grateful for your time and your service.

Lastly, I'm pleased to report that adding a third deputy to this area of Missoula County has helped us have a larger presence in our schools, solve more crimes, stop more criminals and take more drugs off the streets.  

It's an honor to lead the brave men and women of the Sheriff's Office and to provide public safety services to the Seeley-Swan community. We know 2020 will be another year of progress for our department as we continue to serve the incredible folks of Missoula County. Thanks for coming along with us and helping us serve you better.