Date: October 6, 2015
Agency: Morton County Sheriff's Department
Contact: Morton County PIO (701) 426-1587
Mandan, N.D. - Morton County Sheriff Kyle Kirchmeier welcomed support from the National Sheriff’s Association in a press conference here today. Sheriff Danny Glick from Laramie County Wyoming joined Cass County Sheriff Paul Laney in expressing support for Morton County.
Due to the complexity of the situation and now the longevity, nearing two months, resources have been tapped to levels never seen before.
To protect Morton County, its citizens and their right to conduct lawful commerce support has been received from local law enforcement across the state since August. Throughout that time, assistance has been provided by 268 law enforcement officers coming from 24 counties and cities. In addition, 154 Highway Patrol troopers have offered assistance during this event.
“We greatly appreciate the assistance these men and women have provided Morton County. Their presence has truly enabled us to enhance public safety in our county,” said Kyle Kirchmeier, Morton County Sheriff. “I am here to tell the citizens of Morton County that additional support is growing from beyond the state’s borders.
“North Dakota is a tightknit law enforcement community. When a law enforcement leader calls for assistance we are all going to come, said Paul Laney, Cass County Sheriff. “That same sentiment holds true with Sheriff’s across this nation. “
“I’m sorry I have to be here today. But my message is simple and direct. I’m here to pledge the support of the nation’s sheriffs to the people of Morton County and North Dakota,” said Danny Glick, Laramie County (WY) Sheriff. “When we get a call from Sheriff Kirchmeier that he needs assistance, we are ready to respond.”
The National Sheriff’s Association will be able to provide the man power needed to respond to multiple protest locations. It will also allow Morton County to respond to the protest as well as provide a strong presence for all the people of Morton County.
The result of the collaborative relationships between law enforcement officials resulted yesterday in a win for Morton County. Because of the support, law enforcement have been able to take a proactive stance and were able to get ahead of protestors, thwarting their attempts to trespass and vandalize equipment. Protesters have continually engaged in tactics of fear and intimidation in an effort to cause lasting economic damage and endangering lives.
To date, authorities have arrested 96 protesters. 82 of them are from outside North Dakota and are from 25 different states and two Canadian provinces.
###