Chelan County Sheriff adds 24/7 supervisor coverage to patrol shifts

WENATCHEE — The Chelan County Sheriff's Office announced comprehensive operational changes to enhance supervision and accountability across all patrol shifts beginning in 2025.

Sheriff Mike Morrison revealed that patrol supervisors, including both Sergeants and Corporals, will be scheduled alongside deputies during every patrol shift, establishing round-the-clock supervisory presence throughout the county.

The initiative addresses previous gaps in supervisory coverage and aligns with law enforcement best practices, according to the department's announcement on December 31, 2024.

"Supervisors play a critical role in overseeing investigations, managing critical incidents, evaluating employee performance, and ensuring accountability," Morrison stated in the release. "They are responsible for making real-time decisions during incidents, ensuring deputies comply with legal and procedural standards, and providing coaching and mentorship."

As part of the transparency measures, patrol supervisor vehicles will be clearly marked with "SUPERVISOR" signage and display their assigned insignia in multiple locations, making them easily identifiable to the public. This change is scheduled for implementation in early 2025.

The department emphasized that supervisors will manage critical documentation and oversee resources while maintaining service standards across the communities they serve.

"The Sheriff's Office is committed to professionalism, accountability, and public safety," the release stated, adding that these changes represent "a key step in strengthening public confidence and ensuring law enforcement operations meet the highest standards."