(8-26-26) On a Facebook posting today Portland (Indiana) Police Chief Dustin Mock posted a statement about what he called ‘inaccurate statements’ that have been made

I want to clear up some inaccurate statements about traffic control during the Tri-State Gas Engine and Tractor Show.

There were pictures in a post that appeared on social media probably taken Monday, not today. The show officially started today. Those pictures do not show what officers were doing today or what traffic looked like throughout the day.

The Assistant Chief, other officers, and I all monitored U.S. 27 and County Road 100 North, the Votaw Street entrance, and other areas of the city. Much of the morning was spent directing traffic at the fairgrounds entrance on Votaw St, where the biggest problem was occurring.

Traffic at U.S. 27 and County Road 100 North was not heavily congested for much of the day. Later this afternoon, when traffic became heavy leaving the fairgrounds, the Assistant Chief, two other officers, and I were standing in the intersection directing traffic. Those moments were not photographed or mentioned. Of course.

I’ve heard officers comments that Officers “sit at the tables and do nothing” is simply not true. Officers watch traffic and step into the busy intersection when it is needed. Stopping traffic when it is not necessary can make congestion worse and create more danger.

We normally staff that intersection during the busiest times on Friday and Saturday, as we have throughout my career. We also respond at other times when traffic conditions require it, just as we did today.

Our officers must also answer calls and handle problems throughout Portland. The number of people and vehicles in town increases during this event, but our staffing does not!

I am proud of the work being done by our officers, fairgrounds staff, and everyone helping make this event successful. Constructive concerns are welcome, but old pictures and one-sided comments do not tell the full story. Please be patient, drive carefully, and recognize the people working hard to keep everyone safe.

-Chief Mock