March 5, 2026, Tip Of The Week - Data Privacy (Photo) - 03/05/26

DATA PRIVACY
 

Unfortunately, every year thousands of Oregonians fall victim to online criminals who disguise themselves as established organizations or businesses. Internet scams continue to evolve and become harder to recognize. The term cyber-criminal, generally refers to someone using internet services or software to take advantage of victims. Cyber-criminals and other scammers have become quite skilled in getting you to provide your personal information in a variety of ways. Some scammers are selling “official merchandise” while others ask you to pay fees urgently to avoid serious consequences (which are not real). Another popular scam is the click-bait link or file attachment that collects your data by inviting you to open it from a message such as “I think you know this person that was in this car accident” or “Your account has been suspended, click here to reset your password”. But of course, when you click these links you get viruses or are directed to give your personal information to “reset your account” or login. When in doubt don’t open the link, instead open a new browser and pull up the organization’s official website or call their official number.

Here are a few tips to keep you safer from scams and cybercrimes:

• Use caution, especially with those you are not familiar with.
  • When you receive uninvited contacts from people or businesses, whether it's over the phone, by mail, email, in person, or on social media, always consider the possibility that the interaction may be a scam.
  • Remember to call or log on to the organization’s real website to verify the information you’ve been given is accurate.

• Protect your passwords and personal information.
  • Always use password protection.
  • Don’t share account or password information with others.
  • Update security software and back up content regularly.
  • Protect your WiFi network with a password.
  • Avoid using public computers or WiFi hotspots to access online banking or to provide personal information for services.

• Ignore unfamiliar attachments or links.
  • Don’t click on links, open attachments, attempt to unsubscribe, or call any telephone number listed in suspicious messages.
  • Do NOT give any money, credit card info, or other personal details.
  • When in doubt, look up the organization’s website or phone number and contact them directly.

If you have information about or have fallen victim to a scam, please contact the Oregon Attorney General's Consumer Hotline at 1-877-877-9392 or online at www.oregonconsumer.gov

For more information and tips visit our website at www.lincolncountysheriff.net and like us on Facebook at Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office – Oregon.

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February 26, 2026, Tip Of The Week - Problem Gambling Awareness Month (Photo) - 02/26/26

PROBLEM GAMBLING AWARENESS MONTH       

March is Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM) and it’s a great reminder that activities, like gambling, can become a problem and impact our communities in different ways. Gambling can be an activity that is used for recreation and fun, but gambling interacts with our brains in the same way alcohol, drugs, and other "low-effort, high-reward" activities do. Because of this, gambling can become an addiction. Problem gambling is the continuation of gambling activities despite personal, social, or financial consequences. 

Gambling problems are more than just a money issue. Each year problem gambling effects our communities with social impacts such as gambling-related crime which can include embezzling money or burglaries and thefts to help pay gambling debts. Aside from the financial and criminal consequences, problem gambling also negatively impacts relationships. For every one person with a gambling disorder, it is estimated that an additional eight to ten others are affected. Workplaces may see a decrease in productivity, an increase in absences, and other issues if an employee has a gambling disorder. Family and friends often feel replaced by someone’s gambling and can bear the burden of picking up additional responsibilities -both financially (like paying bills on time) and socially (such as increased responsibilities with family, pets, or homecare).

Problem gambling is often referred to as the “hidden addiction” because it is easy to hide and can be difficult for others to notice, but there are some warning signs you can look for.

Problem Gambling Warning Signs:

• Distracted with thoughts of gambling
• Spending more time and money gambling
• Lying or hiding gambling activity
• Risking or damaging relationships
• Being irritable when not gambling
• Gambling to win back losses (this is also known as chasing losses)
• Exaggerating wins and minimizing losses
• Borrowing money
• Gambling debts
• Missing work or other responsibilities

If you choose to gamble, there are ways to reduce the risk of gambling becoming a problem. Setting a time limit, balancing life with other social and recreational activities, and avoiding alcohol while gambling are some of the recommended responsible gambling guidelines. You can find more responsible gambling guidelines by visiting www.opgr.org/prevention-resources/.

In Oregon, FREE problem gambling treatment and support is available for someone with a gambling disorder and those that may be affected by someone’s problem gambling.

Free Problem Gambling Treatment and Support:

• Oregon Problem Gambling Resource 
  • Phone: 1-877-695-4648
  • Text: 503-713-6000
  • Chat on website: OPGR.org

For more information and tips visit our website at www.lincolncountysheriff.net and like us on Facebook at Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office – Oregon.

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02.25.26 - Toledo Vehicle Crash 0 Update 02 - Final Update (Photo) - 02/25/26

TOLEDO VEHICLE CRASH – UPDATE 02 – FINAL UPDATE
 

February 25, 2026 – Toledo, OR
 

At approximately 4:40 PM, the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office was notified of a rollover crash between the 100 and 200 blocks of NE Sturdevant road. The single vehicle, operated by a juvenile, crashed into a power pole resulting in significant damage. Although the juvenile was transported for medical care, there are no known injuries at this time.
 

Central Lincoln PUD and Consumers Power are on scene and working to restore power. For power updates:

• Central Lincoln PUD outage updates: clpud.org/customer-information/outages/outage-information
• Consumers Power: cpi.coop/

Traffic is being diverted until the area is safe and clear.
 

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02.25.26 - Toledo Vehicle Crash - Update 01 (Photo) - 02/25/26

TOLEDO VEHICLE CRASH – UPDATE 01

February 25, 2026 – Toledo, OR

At approximately 4:40 PM, the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office was notified of a rollover crash between the 100 and 200 blocks of NE Sturdevant road. The single vehicle crashed into a power pole resulting in significant damage. Central Lincon PUD is on scene assessing damage and addressing the power outage. Traffic is being diverted from the area.

Due to safety concerns and downed powerlines, the public is asked to stay out of the area.

More information will be shared as the situation develops.
 

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02.25.26 - Quarterly Coffee With A Deputy - Newport (Photo) - 02/25/26

QUARTERLY COFFEE WITH A DEPUTY – NEWPORT
 

The next Quarterly Coffee with a Deputy event with the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office is just around the corner. Join us on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, from 9:30am – 11am for a cup of coffee and a conversation at Ultralife Cafe (located at 715 NW Beach Drive Newport, OR 97365).

More about these quarterly events:
Every three months our office partners with a local coffee shop in Lincoln County to provide a time, space, and coffee for community members to meet our team and share what’s on their minds. Coffee with a cop events are a friendly and relaxed way for our communities to connect with the deputies that serve them.

These events offer a unique opportunity for community members to directly engage with law enforcement, ask questions, voice concerns, and build positive relationships. Whether you're a regular coffee drinker or simply curious about the work of law enforcement, this is a chance to connect with our team on a personal level, learn about each other’s experiences, and share local feedback.
 

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02.21.26 - Mail Theft Investigation Leads To Arrest (Photo) - 02/21/26

Mail Theft Investigation Leads to Arrest

On February 19, 2025, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office Deputies received multiple reports of mail theft near NW Kinglet St in Seal Rock. Through the course of the investigation, Deputies learned similar thefts had been occurring in the area, with packages, tax documents, and other mail being stolen over the last few months.

Deputies obtained photographs of the suspect from a nearby security camera, and disseminated these images to neighboring law enforcement agencies to assist in identifying the individual. Through this process, the suspect was identified as Joshua Van Hoorebeke of Toledo. Van Hoorebeke was contacted and taken into custody for Mail Theft (ORS 164.162).

Mail theft is a crime of opportunity and those who commit it are looking for anything of value. Thieves target mail for personal information, such as tax refunds or other checks, personal documents, bank documents, and credit card information. This information can be used to commit additional crimes, such as identity theft and bank fraud. To protect yourself, pick up mail daily, use secure drop-off locations, and report suspicious activity immediately to the U.S. Postal Inspection Service at 877-876-2455 or at MailTheft.USPIS.gov. 

To report mail theft or other suspicious activity, please contact Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office at 541-265-0777.

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February 19, 2026, Tip Of The Week - Move Over. It's The Law. (Photo) - 02/19/26

MOVE OVER. IT’S THE LAW     
 

Every day, first responders take on personal risk to serve our communities and save lives. Even a routine traffic stop has become risky. The following information comes from the Oregon Department of Transportation (www.oregon.gov/ODOT) and can help keep first responders and commuters safer.

There have been many cases where officers are pulled over on the side of the road when drivers have then crashed into them at high speeds. That’s why there’s a strict law in Oregon designed to help prevent these situations from happening again.

The Move Over Law (ORS 811.147) states that if you are approaching any type of emergency vehicle, tow truck or roadside assistance vehicle which is stopped on the roadside with emergency lights activated, you must:

• MOVE OVER into another available lane.
• If you can’t safely change lanes, SLOW DOWN to a speed that is at least 5 mph below the posted or designated speed of the roadway.
• In all cases, the driver must try to provide as much room as possible for the emergency vehicle, tow truck or roadside assistance vehicle.

The Move Over Law is in place to help protect law enforcement officers, emergency workers, tow operators and those who routinely provide assistance to motorists along the highways. This group of dedicated professionals face a deadly threat on a daily basis: speeding and inattentive drivers. But the law also exists to protect you. The flashing lights are your cue to move over and slow down.

If you are approaching the scene of a crash, carefully watch for emergency workers directing traffic and follow all of their instructions.

For more information and tips visit our website at www.lincolncountysheriff.net and like us on Facebook at Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office – Oregon.

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February 12, 2026, Tip Of The Week - Natural Gas Safety (Photo) - 02/12/26

NATURAL GAS SAFETY

Many homes and businesses use natural gas for heat and appliances. Natural gas is safe when used correctly, but leaks can be dangerous. Here’s what you need to know:

• Natural gas is made to smell like rotten eggs so you can notice a leak.
• If you smell gas or hear a hissing sound, leave right away. Don’t use your phone or turn on lights inside the building.
• Go to a safe place and call 911 and your gas company.
• Don’t light matches, use lighters, or make sparks.
• Only turn off the gas if you smell it, hear it, or see signs of a leak—and only if it’s safe to do so.
• After an earthquake or disaster, it may take days for help to arrive. Have a plan and a safe meeting place for your family.
• Make sure everyone in your house knows what to do if there is a gas leak.
• Ask your gas company for more safety information.

For more information and tips visit our website at www.lincolncountysheriff.net and like us on Facebook at Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office – Oregon.

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02.12.26 - Animal Shelter To Host New Facility Ribbon Cutting (Photo) - 02/12/26

ANIMAL SHELTER TO HOST NEW FACILITY RIBBON CUTTING 

The Lincoln County Animal Shelter, Sheriff’s Office, and Board of Commissioners are excited to announce the ribbon cutting event for the new animal shelter facility. Join us on March 5, 2026, to celebrate the hard work, dedication, and generosity shown over the last six years of this project.  

• What: Animal Shelter New Facility Ribbon Cutting Event
  • Ribbon cutting 
  • Building tours  
  • A closer look at shelter operations and what it takes to keep it running 
• Where: 220 SW Dahl Avenue Waldport, OR 
• When:  
  • 8:30 AM - Media Tours 
  • Members of the media are invited to tour the facility with the Animal Shelter team. Media is asked to RSVP for tour group planning.  
  • 10:30 AM – Ceremony 
  • Community members and media are invited to attend the ribbon cutting ceremony, guided shelter tours, and meet our team. 
• RSVP: Members of the media and community members are encouraged to RSVP to help with event planning. Click here to RSVP as a member of the media. Click here to RSVP as a community member
• Other:  
  • Parking is limited so carpooling is encouraged. The main Animal Shelter parking lot will be saved for ADA parking and the ribbon cutting ceremony. Street parking is available (see attached map).  
  • Please do not bring personal pets to the animal shelter event. 
  • Our team is unable to accept donated items at this time unless they are on our Amazon Wishlist. 

Can’t make it? Keep an eye on our Facebook page and website for a virtual look at the shelter.  
 

Looking for ways to support your Lincoln County Animal Shelter?  

• Make a donation 
  • Monetary donations may be mailed or brought to: 
    Lincoln County Animal Shelter 
    220 SW Dahl Avenue 
    Waldport, OR 97394 
• Call 541-265-0720 to make a donation over the phone. 
• Shop our wish list on Amazon.  
• Become a volunteer and enrich shelter life for the animals in our care! Dog walkers, cat socializers, foster homes, and more are needed. Learn more about volunteering and submit a volunteer application today! 

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02.11.26 – Waldport Plane Crash – Final Update (Photo) - 02/11/26

February 11, 2026 – Waldport, OR
 

On February 11, 2026, at approximately 1:35pm, The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office receive a report of an airplane crash at the Wakonda Beach Airport in Waldport, OR. The aircraft was reported to be severely damaged, with the pilot still inside, and stuck approximately 50 feet up in the trees.

Responders arrived on scene and contacted the pilot, who was the sole occupant of the aircraft. The pilot was safely extricated from the aircraft and evaluated by medical staff. No fatalities or injuries resulted in this incident. There is no ongoing threat to the community.

The cause of the crash is still unknown and under investigation. The investigation was turned over to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

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02.11.26 - Waldport Plane Crash - Update 01 (Photo) - 02/11/26

WALDPORT PLANE CRASH – UPDATE 01

February 11, 2026 – Waldport, OR

The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office and partnering agencies area responding to a single occupant plane crash at Wakonda Beach Airport in Waldport, Or. Community members are asked to stay clear of the area while responders assess the situation and secure the scene.

More information will be shared as the situation develops.
 

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Tip Of The Week - Celebrate Super Bowl And Seafood And Wine Safely (Photo) - 02/05/26

CELEBRATE SUPER BOWL AND SEAFOOD AND WINE SAFELY

Football fans are gathering for Super Bowl Sunday and Seafood and Wine attendees are getting ready to trickle into town. When you think of drunk driving, it’s easy to think about the financial impact: fines, legal fees, and criminal charges are no joke and can seriously affect your future. But there are additional consequences that impact our communities.

Drivers that get DUIs (a driving under the influence citation) are the lucky ones. Many know someone that has been killed or injured by an impaired driver or know someone that made the wrong choice and was the drunk driver. During football season, special events, and throughout the year, we urge you to make the right choice and not to drive after drinking. If you are drinking, have a plan to keep yourself and your community safe. Have a designated driver, use a taxi, or alternate transportation. Friends also play a large role in keeping each other safe. Encourage those around you not to drive after drinking and when possible, help them find a safe way home.

If you didn’t plan on drinking but find yourself drinking in the moment, do not drive home, find a safe alternative instead. But you really need your car for work in the morning and you’re “just a little buzzed?”. Buzzed driving is drunk driving. You may get hit with large fines, lose your car and your job due to court dates and a DUI charge on your record, and you may kill someone or yourself if you are in a crash. Don’t be the reason someone doesn’t make it home. Don’t drive after drinking. 
 

For more information and tips visit our website at www.lincolncountysheriff.net and like us on Facebook at Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office – Oregon.

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