Our History

Upholding Excellence: The La Grande Police Department's Century of Service

Introduction:
Since its establishment in 1885, the La Grande Police Department has been a cornerstone of La Grande's history, embodying a commitment to service and professionalism. This narrative explores the department's rich history, significant achievements, and the enduring dedication to upholding the highest standards of professionalism in service to the community.

From Humble Beginnings to Modern Guardians:
Rooted in the late 19th century, the La Grande Police Department's inception marked the beginning of a legacy dedicated to maintaining order and ensuring community safety. Over the years, the department has transformed into a modern force, adaptive and responsive to the evolving landscape of law enforcement.

Milestones, Triumphs, and Professionalism:
The department's journey is marked by milestones that exemplify its commitment to excellence and professionalism. Pioneering community engagement initiatives and implementing cutting-edge crime prevention strategies, the La Grande Police Department has set the standard for professional conduct. Ongoing training and development underscore the department's dedication to professionalism in the pursuit of public safety.

Community-Centric Policing:
At the heart of the La Grande Police Department's ethos is a profound dedication to community service. Actively engaging with residents through educational outreach and collaborative programs, the department fosters strong bonds within the community. This community-centric approach, infused with professionalism, remains integral to addressing the unique needs of La Grande.

Safeguarding La Grande with Professionalism:
For over a century, the La Grande Police Department has stood as a guardian, epitomizing professionalism in every aspect of its service. The department's legacy of excellence, resilience, and commitment has become intertwined with La Grande's identity. Looking forward, the La Grande Police Department remains steadfast in its mission to protect and serve with the highest levels of professionalism.

Conclusion:
"Upholding Excellence" encapsulates the La Grande Police Department's century-long commitment to service and professionalism, including its pioneering role in establishing 911 Dispatch Services in Union County in 1991. As the department reflects on its rich history, it looks toward the future with a continued dedication to service, professionalism, and the unwavering safeguarding of the community it has proudly served for over a hundred years.

Chronicle of Chiefs: Leadership Legacy at La Grande Police Department

The retrieval of data from the earlier years of our department's history presents challenges, and as such, the provided date ranges are based on our best efforts to determine accurate information. Instances where '**' are noted indicate areas where confirmed data is currently unavailable.