From Portland Police Chief Mock 10-20-26
Following tonight’s Council meeting, I want to address several comments about dispatch consolidation.
I was deeply troubled by the question, “How many more teenagers have to die for us to do what’s right?” I acknowledge the subsequent clarification that these comments were not intended to assign blame to Portland Police Dispatch. My concern is the impression that wording can create when used to advocate for consolidation.
A young person lost his life. Connecting that tragedy to this discussion risks suggesting that maintaining Portland Police Dispatch contributed to his death or that consolidation would have prevented it. It was also acknowledged during the meeting that we do not know what would have happened otherwise. That distinction matters.
This was a call within Portland. Our officers were dispatched and responded based on the information they received. Statements about an alleged communication failure should be supported by the actual records before conclusions are drawn about its cause or solution. Public speculation can unfairly cast doubt on officers, dispatchers, and fellow responders who faced a serious and traumatic situation.
I also respect and support Sheriff Newton. I have confidence that he takes legitimate public-safety concerns seriously and would make every effort to address reasonable requests for improvement. Did he ever receive such requests? Tonight’s discussion referenced a meeting that I was not part of and requests concerning automatic mutual aid. What specifically was requested, what action followed, and what remains unresolved should be clearly explained.
Jay County already dispatches Portland Fire and EMS. Fire personnel deserve meaningful input into that service. But the desire for “a voice” does not explain why Portland Police Dispatch must be eliminated to obtain that voice. How would removing our dispatch operation resolve those concerns, and could the needed improvements be pursued within the existing arrangement?
My opposition involves considerably more than preserving dispatch positions. In September, I provided Council and the Board of Works a six-page assessment addressing costs, staffing, duties left behind, officer availability, accountability, and alternatives. That assessment draws directly from the consultant’s findings. I later shared it publicly for residents to read.
I understand tonight’s motion was to begin discussions. We know consolidation is technically feasible. What I have not been shown is a complete analysis demonstrating its benefit to Portland residents and the Police Department after accounting for the full costs and operational consequences. Any transition would require substantial planning, staffing arrangements, agreements, and time. It would not be an overnight fix.
I respect Council’s responsibilities, but I do not believe the concerns I documented have received meaningful answers. At this point, this feels like a one-sided argument. My position and recommendations are already available for everyone to read. Just like other Chiefs before me, I stand by that assessment and do not intend to continue this debate.
Chief Mock
