By Laura Swanson
The Tillamook County Sheriff’s Office recently reported a Narcotics Team drug arrest in the Tillamook Safeway parking lot in late February. After receiving information about a possible assault and other public safety issues occurring in the Safeway parking lot, the Pioneer reached out to Tillamook Police Chief Troxel for more information. Reviewing dispatched calls to the Safeway parking lot since the beginning of the year, Troxel noted over 64 calls, and during the week March 1st to 6th – there were eight calls.
Safeway employees witness drug deals, thefts and suspicious activity on a daily basis, and the Tillamook Police Department is responding to nearly a call per day at the parking lot. But many times these things are not reported to law enforcement. “We didn’t see a report for an assault in the Safeway parking lot, and if this was something on the scanner watch page, or on social media that’s not dependable information,” explained Chief Troxel. “If you see something, say something. That means calling 911 if it’s criminal activity or making a call to non-emergency 503-815-1911. Posting about it on social media is not reporting it.”
The chief also advises community members to be aware of their surroundings and report problems to Safeway management as well. “We have repeatedly reached out to Safeway management about the problems and issues without much response,” noted Troxel. The parking lot IS Safeway’s property, not the City of Tillamook, and the company is responsible for providing a safe, secure environment. According to many community members, they will not go to Safeway after dark, and also report no longer going to Safeway at any time. “Just don’t feel safe in the parking lot,” was the common statement.
Of note is a recent Tillamook Police Department staffing audit determined that the department is understaffed. “We currently have ten sworn employees, we should have 15,” said Chief Troxel. “Keep in mind that to cover all the shifts, we have one officer on duty per shift. So when we are repeatedly called to the same location, that impacts our coverage of the whole community.”
Chief Troxel wants to hear from you – Join him at the upcoming Chat with the Chief event on Thursday, March 13th at the Tillamook Main Library from 7 to 8pm. Learn about what’s happening in your community, hear current crime trends in Tillamook and share neighborhood concerns.
All are welcome including families with children; coloring sheets and crayons will be available for kids. Light refreshments will be provided.