Sheriff’s update
As we enter into the holiday season I hope all of us in Mendocino County can take the time and think about the numerous reasons we have to be grateful.
I know for many it will be family and friends, while others it will be for their faith and community connections as well as safety in our homes which many people simply don’t get to experience. The closeness and commitments to our neighbors throughout the county has always been one of our strongest assets. This bond we share is one of the reasons I have chosen to live my life here in Mendocino County and to raise my family here. As I think of the upcoming holiday season, I would like to thank everyone who continues to support their community and their neighbors. I would also like to give a huge thank you to all who support public safety. We are truly blessed to have the support of all our communities.
I would ask we all continue to do our part to keep each other safe during the holiday season. During the COVID pandemic please be sure to mask up and follow the orders of our health officer. I believe the pandemic is similar to climbing a huge mountain we have never seen before. Luckily, we have the assistance of a guide, this guide is our health officer. If we all continue to follow the guidance we are given, we will make it to our destination. We have made many sacrifices throughout the year, from masking to evacuations due to wildfire. Let’s remember these sacrifices will someday be remembered as simply doing the right thing.
I am asking all residents to remember the unwritten rules we follow as human beings. These unwritten rules guide us in caring for our families, neighbors and fellow human beings. Good conscience in our daily lives will continue to serve us. I have seen in several areas of our nation where people have forgotten their responsibility to their fellow person. I am happy that is a rare event here in Mendocino County.
Please remember we have several first responders who are continuing to serve us through the holiday season. When we see a nurse, Doctor, EMT, fireman or peace officer, let’s remember to thank them for their service. These folks will be working the holidays. Remember your loved ones and call them if you can. Currently we have several people who are beginning to experience loneliness. Now is the perfect time to reconnect with friends and relatives in a safe manner.
Many times a call from an old friend can brighten someone’s day in a way we simply don’t anticipate. I understand most of us will be celebrating the holidays in manners different than we are accustomed to. So let’s work together to keep each other safe while doing so.
For persons traveling, please remember the weather is unpredictable, so drive safely. If you need to travel away from home please let the Sheriff’s Office, or any jurisdiction you reside in know you will be away. Deputies often complete extra patrols of neighborhoods and residences. If possible reach out to the Sheriff’s area commander so we can keep an eye on your place while you are away. Due to the increases in theft from mail boxes and thefts of packages we will again be conducting surveillance campaigns to curb these thefts. We have been very successful in this endeavor in previous years. This is also due to the partnership we have with our residents. We will continue to work together on this.
In closing we know that we have had a long year of emergencies within our county. However we are continuing to stand strong. This is due to the spirit and resilience of our communities, I am often reminded character is the virtue learned during hard times. I would like to thank all of our communities and public safety partners who have worked with us to continue serving Mendocino County with such character.
Let’s all have a happy and safe holiday season in Mendocino County. Sincerely, Sheriff Matt Kendall