Warm Springs Tribal Police gets federal grant to fund 2 highway safety officers

WARM SPRINGS, Ore. (KTVZ) -- The Warm Springs Tribal Police Department has received a federal traffic safety grant that will allow for the hiring of two full-time highway safety officers.

These officers will be charged with patrolling the major roadways crossing the Warm Springs Indian Reservation, Police Chief Bill Elliott said Wednesday.

This year, there have been several catastrophic vehicle accidents on Highway 26 and other arteries resulting in the loss of life, including that of a 4-year-old, the police chief said.

The main reason for these accidents are related to one or more of three factors; speeding, reckless driving and drinking, Elliott said.

"The WSTPD is dedicated to providing for the public safety of all of its citizens, and those visiting or travelling through the WSIR," Elliott said in the announcement.

If you'd like further information about this program please feel free to contact Lt Ron Gregory at 541-553-1171, or Chief of Police Bill Elliott.