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- calendar_today October 15, 2026
Clackamas County Leads Annual Family Violence Warrant Sweep
The Clackamas County Sheriff's Office (CCSO), together with law enforcement agencies from around the country, participated in the 23rd annual National Family Violence Warrant Sweep on October 14, 2026. The operation aimed to locate and arrest some of the county's most violent offenders, sending a clear message to victims that their cases matter and that law enforcement is dedicated to addressing family violence.
Law Enforcement Partnerships and Decades of Experience
Detectives Aaron Hawkins and Shauna Woodward, both experienced in handling domestic violence and violent sex abuse crimes, played a central role in the operation. They were joined by colleagues from Lake Oswego, West Linn, Canby, and Happy Valley police departments, among other agencies. Their coordinated efforts highlight the collaborative nature of the annual warrant sweep.
Nationwide Impact of the Warrant Sweep
The National Family Violence Warrant Sweep, spearheaded by CCSO for 23 years, has gained attention across the country. According to CCSO data, law enforcement agencies have served 130,000 arrest warrants and made 18,000 arrests nationwide since the sweep's inception. These efforts are credited with contributing to some of the lowest domestic violence rates recorded in Clackamas County in recent years.
Focus on Survivor Support and Community Safety
Clackamas County Sheriff James Rhodes emphasized the importance of prioritizing family violence cases, stating, "Since 2022, we've held the lowest domestic violence rate of any county in Oregon of the highest population." He noted that making these cases a priority serves as both a promise to victims and a warning to offenders. The effort unites local police, the district attorney, probation officers, shelter organizers, and community members in a shared mission to protect survivors and hold offenders accountable.
Firsthand Survivor Insight Fuels Law Enforcement Efforts
Aurora, a survivor of stalking and harassment who ultimately escaped a violent attack, is now using her experience to assist law enforcement in tracking down other dangerous suspects. She highlighted the importance of providing survivors with "knowledge, options, and a connection to the next step" as powerful tools for recovery and justice.
Challenges in Executing Arrest Warrants
KOIN 6 News accompanied Detectives Hawkins and Woodward as they served active arrest warrants for suspects accused of crimes including assault, violating restraining orders, and sex abuse. The detectives noted that some suspects use outdated addresses to evade law enforcement, a recurring challenge during the operation. Despite this, about eight individuals were arrested on outstanding warrants during the sweep, with more expected as investigations continue.
Ongoing Commitment to Reducing Domestic Violence Rates
Clackamas County's focused operations have contributed to a significant drop in domestic violence rates in recent years. Law enforcement officials assert the continued warrant sweeps keep cases active and demonstrate the community's seriousness about combating family violence, prioritizing victim and survivor support, and ensuring community safety.
Source: koin.com.
