Van Buren County Michigan Sheriffs Office

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Sheriff Daniel E. Abbott and Reserve Sergeant Walter Grech Presented on Mobile Cybersecurity Training to Senior Services...
06/11/2026

Sheriff Daniel E. Abbott and Reserve Sergeant Walter Grech Presented on Mobile Cybersecurity Training to Senior Services of Van Buren County
The Van Buren County Sheriff's Office is pleased to recognize Reserve Sergeant Sheriff Daniel E. Abbott and Walter Grech for recently providing a cybersecurity presentation to participants at Senior Services of Van Buren County.
The presentation focused on the growing importance of mobile device security and the steps individuals can take to better protect themselves from cyber threats. As smartphones and tablets have become essential tools for communication, banking, healthcare access, and social interaction, they have also become attractive targets for cybercriminals.
Reserve Sergeant Grech led discussions on common wireless connectivity threats, including risks associated with unsecured public Wi‑Fi networks, malicious 'man‑in‑the‑middle' attacks, fraudulent mobile transactions, phishing attempts, and other cyber threats that frequently target mobile device users. Participants learned practical strategies to safeguard their personal information and reduce their risk of becoming victims of cybercrime.
Sheriff Abbott supported the presentation by emphasizing the importance of cybersecurity awareness within the community and highlighting how cybercrime continues to affect residents of all ages. Sheriff Abbott encouraged attendees to remain vigilant, verify suspicious communications, and report potential scams or fraudulent activity to law enforcement. He also advised attendees to follow the Van Buren County Sheriff's Office page and regularly review the weekly 'From the Desk of Sheriff Abbott' postings, which provide timely information on public safety concerns, emerging threats, crime trends, scams, community events, and other relevant county activities affecting Van Buren County residents.
"Cybersecurity begins with awareness and education," said Sgt. Grech. "By understanding both the technology we use every day and the threats that target it, individuals can take simple but effective steps to better protect themselves and their information."
Sheriff Abbott added, "Technology plays an important role in our daily lives, but it also creates opportunities for criminals to target unsuspecting individuals. Education is one of the most effective tools we have to help our residents recognize threats and protect themselves online."
The Van Buren County Sheriff's Office remains committed to community outreach and public education efforts that help residents stay safe both online and offline. As technology continues to evolve, cybersecurity awareness plays a critical role in protecting individuals, families, and communities from emerging digital threats.
Residents interested in learning more about cybersecurity best practices are encouraged to follow the Van Buren County Sheriff's Office for future educational opportunities and public safety information.

Fatal Residential Fire in Waverly TownshipWAVERLY TOWNSHIP, Mich.June 11, 2026Sheriff Daniel E. Abbott reports that on T...
06/11/2026

Fatal Residential Fire in Waverly Township

WAVERLY TOWNSHIP, Mich.
June 11, 2026

Sheriff Daniel E. Abbott reports that on Thursday, June 11, 2026, at approximately 5:46 a.m., Van Buren County Central Dispatch received a 911 call reporting a house fire in the 35000 block of 36th Avenue in Waverly Township.

Van Buren County Sheriff's deputies and the Paw Paw Fire Department were immediately dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, first responders found the residence fully engulfed in flames. Responders were also advised that an elderly female resident lived alone at the home.

Firefighters from the Paw Paw Fire Department initiated a search of the residence and located the victim inside. Tragically, the victim was found deceased.
The Michigan State Police Fire Marshal was requested to respond and assist with the investigation to determine the cause of the fire. Preliminary findings indicate that a tree branch fell onto an electrical line, which caused the fire. At this time, no foul play is suspected.

The identity of the victim is being withheld pending notification of family members.
The investigation remains ongoing.

Assisting agencies included the Van Buren County Sheriff's Office Uniform Response Division, Van Buren County Criminal Investigations Division (CID), WMED Medical Examiner's Office, Paw Paw Fire Department, Gobles Fire Department, Bloomingdale Fire Department, and the Michigan State Police Fire Marshal Division.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASETraffic Stop Leads to Pursuit, Drug and Firearm Seizure, and Arrest on Multiple Felony ChargesHARTF...
06/10/2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Traffic Stop Leads to Pursuit, Drug and Firearm Seizure, and Arrest on Multiple Felony Charges

HARTFORD TOWNSHIP, MI – June 9, 2026

Sheriff Daniel E. Abbott reports that on June 9, 2026, at approximately 4:09 p.m., Detectives with the Van Buren County Narcotics Unit received information regarding a male subject operating a red 2019 Buick Encore in the Hartford area who was allegedly in possession of a large quantity of methamphetamine.

Detectives, along with Van Buren County Road Patrol Deputies, located the vehicle and attempted a traffic stop after observing traffic violations. The vehicle pulled into the Four Winds Casino parking lot in Hartford but failed to stop when deputies activated their emergency lights and siren.

The suspect vehicle continued through the parking lot and exited onto Red Arrow Highway, traveling eastbound toward the City of Hartford. A pursuit was initiated involving Road Patrol Deputies and Narcotics Detectives. As the vehicle entered the City of Hartford, Officers from the Pokagon Tribal Police Department attempted to deploy spike strips, causing the suspect vehicle to leave the roadway and enter a nearby parking lot. The vehicle then came to a stop, and the driver was taken into custody without further incident.

A subsequent search of the vehicle resulted in the seizure of nearly one ounce of methamphetamine, a stolen 9mm handgun located under the passenger seat, and an open pint of whiskey found beneath the driver’s seat.

The firearm was confirmed to have been reported stolen from Cass County on June 4, 2026.

The driver, identified as David Paul Lemay, 50, of Allegan, was arrested and lodged at the Van Buren County Jail. Lemay was also found to have an active bench warrant from Berrien County for Failure to Appear, along with two Failure to Appear warrants from Allegan County Friend of the Court.

Lemay faces the following charges:

* Fleeing and Eluding
* Possession with Intent to Deliver Methamphetamine
* Possession of a Stolen Handgun
* Carrying a Concealed Weapon
* Felon in Possession of a Firearm
* Felon in Possession of Ammunition
* Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony
* Open Intoxicants in a Motor Vehicle
* Fugitive Arrest

Assisting agencies included the Van Buren County Narcotics Unit, Van Buren County Road Patrol, Pokagon Tribal Police Department, and Hartford Police Department.

Sheriff Abbott would like to thank all assisting agencies for their coordinated efforts, which resulted in the safe apprehension of the suspect and the removal of illegal narcotics and a stolen firearm from the community.

Sheriff Daniel E. Abbott is proud to announce that Deputy Eric Calhoun and Deputy Randy Whitmore were both awarded the D...
06/08/2026

Sheriff Daniel E. Abbott is proud to announce that Deputy Eric Calhoun and Deputy Randy Whitmore were both awarded the Distinguished Service Award by the Michigan Sheriffs’ Association on June 7.

Undersheriff Casey Davis had the honor of speaking at the awards ceremony and sharing the extraordinary bravery displayed by both deputies on July 4, 2025, when multiple pipe bombs were thrown at them from close range while they were performing their duties.

Undersheriff Davis also highlighted the extensive investigation, coordination, and tireless efforts during the incident, ultimately leading to the successful apprehension of the suspect responsible.

Sheriff Abbott and Undersheriff Davis are extremely proud of Deputy Calhoun and Deputy Whitmore for their courage, professionalism, and commitment to protecting the citizens of Van Buren County. They also extend their sincere appreciation to the Michigan Sheriffs’ Association for recognizing these deputies and their heroic actions with this prestigious award.

Please join us in congratulating Deputy Calhoun and Deputy Whitmore on this well-deserved recognition.

• Members of Our Office of Domestic Preparedness attended the 9th Annual North American Active Assailant Conference in T...
06/05/2026

• Members of Our Office of Domestic Preparedness attended the 9th Annual North American Active Assailant Conference in Troy, Mi. It is the largest event of its kind and was attended by law enforcement, fire departments, emergency medical services, corporate security, emergency management, and other stakeholders responsible for active violence prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery. They were given a wealth of information that aids them in doing their jobs at a high level.
• Thank You South Haven Area Community Foundation for the Generous Donation to Our Reserve Division. The funds will be put to good use aiding the division to upgrade their portable radios.
• Congratulations to Sergeant Rich Rennack on being Promoted to Lieutenant and Detective Chad Hunt on being Promoted to Uniform Response Sergeant. Both have worked hard in their career and will no doubt continue to excel in their new roles.
• Uniform Response handled a Serious One Vehicle Crash that went Off the Roadway into the Trees in Bloomingdale Township. The 21-year-old driver fell asleep, went off the road, and hit some trees. The driver was extricated and air lifted to the hospital due to the life-threatening injuries.
• Uniform Response handled an Assault in Columbia Township. The suspect fled the scene prior to Deputy’s arrival. Deputies are actively looking for the suspect, and the report was sent to the Prosecutors Office for charges.
• I would like to give a Shout Out to Undersheriff Casey Davis for what he did Off Duty. Undersheriff Davis and his wife were in Texas Township in Kalamazoo County getting gas when a traffic crash happened on the road by them. He immediately checked on those involved and found there were no serious injuries. The driver of one of the vehicles was occupied by three young men on their way to their graduation ceremony being held at Miller Auditorium. The Undersheriff made contact with the high school principal about what took place so they could stall if needed be so the kids wouldn’t miss it. Undersheriff Davis then drove all the young men to their graduation so they wouldn’t miss it. The family of the driver reached out to let me know this took place and to let me know how much it meant to the family.
• Uniform Response handled a Larceny from a Motor Vehicle in Bloomingdale Township. Numerous Milwaukee tools and batteries were stolen out of a parked work truck in a field. The initials BG were written on them with a sharpie marker. Anyone with information on this is asked to call our office.
• Uniform Response handled a Single Vehicle Rollover Crash in Keeler Township. The 16-year-old driver was driving too fast on a gravel road, lost control, went off the road, and overturned. The driver was not seriously hurt in the crash.
• Uniform Response handled a Car vs. Tree Accident in Porter Township. The 24-year-old was arrested for operating under the influence of alcohol. The passenger was transported to the hospital for their injuries.
• Our Court Security Deputies Arrested an Individual that Ran Out of a Sentencing Hearing at Paw Paw District Court. Deputies were able to catch individual and place them in custody. They now will go back in front of Judge McKay for the new charge.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASESheriff Daniel E. Abbott Announces New Water Safety Initiatives for 2026 Boating SeasonThe Van Bure...
06/05/2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Sheriff Daniel E. Abbott Announces New Water Safety Initiatives for 2026 Boating Season

The Van Buren County Sheriff's Office is pleased to announce two new water safety initiatives aimed at enhancing public safety and promoting responsible boating during the 2026 boating season.

Through the Yamaha Law Loan Program, Platinum Powersports of Coloma has provided the Van Buren County Sheriff's Office Marine Division with a 2026 Yamaha Personal Watercraft (PWC). The new PWC will be stationed in South Haven and utilized for marine patrol operations, search and rescue missions, and law enforcement activities on the waterways of Van Buren County.

The addition of the PWC will enhance the Marine Division's ability to respond quickly to emergencies. Personal watercraft offer several advantages over larger patrol boats, including faster response times, improved maneuverability, and the ability to operate in shallow water. These capabilities are especially beneficial during water rescue situations where every second counts.

The Sheriff's Office would like to thank Platinum Powersports and Yamaha for their continued support of public safety and their commitment to helping law enforcement agencies better serve their communities.

In addition, the South Haven McDonald's has partnered with the Marine Division to promote boating safety among young boaters. The restaurant has generously donated 150 ice cream coupons that deputies will distribute to children who are observed wearing their life jackets while enjoying the county's waterways.

"This is a great opportunity to positively reinforce safe boating habits among our youngest boaters," said Sheriff Daniel Abbott. "We appreciate South Haven McDonald's for supporting this effort and helping us encourage life jacket use."

Sheriff Abbott would also like to remind boaters that Michigan law requires children under the age of six to wear a properly fitted life jacket at all times while on board a vessel. He strongly encourages all boaters, regardless of age, to wear a life jacket whenever they are underway.

"Summertime and boating go hand in hand in Van Buren County," said Sheriff Abbott. "Our lakes and rivers provide wonderful opportunities for recreation and relaxation. However, accidents can happen in the blink of an eye. Being prepared, wearing a life jacket, operating your vessel responsibly, and never boating under the influence will help ensure that everyone returns safely to the dock."

The Van Buren County Sheriff's Office Marine Division will continue its efforts throughout the boating season to educate boaters, enforce marine safety laws, and provide assistance to those enjoying the county's waterways.

Van Buren County Sheriff’s Office Thanks South Haven Community Foundation for $10,000 DonationPAW PAW, Mich. — The Van B...
06/03/2026

Van Buren County Sheriff’s Office Thanks South Haven Community Foundation for $10,000 Donation

PAW PAW, Mich. — The Van Buren County Sheriff’s Office would like to extend its sincere appreciation to the South Haven Area Community Foundation for its generous $10,000 donation to the Van Buren County Sheriff Reserve Division. The funds will be used to purchase new portable radios for reserve deputies.

Reserve deputies volunteer countless hours each year supporting community events, traffic control, emergency incidents, search and rescue operations, and other public safety functions throughout Van Buren County. Reliable communications are essential to ensuring they can safely and effectively work alongside full-time deputies and other first responders.

Portable radios provide reserve deputies with direct communication to dispatch, patrol units, and emergency personnel. Whether responding to incidents, assisting at large public events, or supporting emergency operations, dependable communications improve coordination, enhance officer safety, and help ensure a rapid response when needed.

“This generous donation will have a direct impact on our ability to serve the community,” said Sheriff Daniel E. Abbott. “Our Reserve Division plays an important role in supporting public safety efforts across the county, and these new radios will provide them with the tools they need to communicate effectively and operate safely.”

The Van Buren County Sheriff’s Office is grateful for the South Haven Area Community Foundation’s commitment to supporting local public safety initiatives. Their investment will help ensure reserve deputies remain equipped, connected, and ready to serve the residents and visitors of Van Buren County.

On behalf of the Sheriff’s Office and Reserve Division, thank you to the South Haven Area Community Foundation for this generous contribution and continued support of our community.

For more information about the Van Buren County Sheriff Reserve Division and volunteer opportunities, visit: Van Buren County Sheriff Reserve Division. https://vanburencountymi.gov/departments/sheriff/divisions/reserve-division/

The Van Buren County Sheriff's Office is proud to announce the promotion of two outstanding members of our agency.Congra...
06/02/2026

The Van Buren County Sheriff's Office is proud to announce the promotion of two outstanding members of our agency.

Congratulations to Richard Rennhack on his promotion to Lieutenant and Chad Hunt on his promotion to Road Patrol Sergeant.

Both Lieutenant Rennhack and Sergeant Hunt have demonstrated exceptional leadership, professionalism, dedication, and commitment throughout their careers with the Sheriff's Office. Their hard work and service to the citizens of Van Buren County have earned them the respect of their peers and the communities they serve.

Lieutenant Rennhack has consistently exemplified the qualities of a leader and will continue to play a vital role in guiding our agency forward. Sergeant Hunt's experience, work ethic, and commitment to excellence make him an outstanding addition to our supervisory team.

Please join Sheriff Daniel Abbott, Undersheriff Casey Davis, and the entire Van Buren County Sheriff's Office in congratulating Lieutenant Richard Rennhack and Sergeant Chad Hunt on their well-deserved promotions.

Thank you both for your continued dedication to public safety and service to Van Buren County.

🚴‍♂️ Come out to the Bike Rodeo in Mattawan and show off your riding skills!Join us behind Mattawan Elementary in the bu...
05/30/2026

🚴‍♂️ Come out to the Bike Rodeo in Mattawan and show off your riding skills!

Join us behind Mattawan Elementary in the bus loop, where Deputy Anderson is on site sharing important bicycle safety tips and helping young riders stay safe on the road.

Remember: Always wear your helmet! ⛑️

We hope to see you there for a fun and educational day of biking! 🚲🚔

• Uniform Response handled an Assault in Progress in Bangor Township. One of the Deputy’s that responded was sucker punc...
05/29/2026

• Uniform Response handled an Assault in Progress in Bangor Township. One of the Deputy’s that responded was sucker punched and injured during the incident. The suspect in the incident was lodged.
• Uniform Response handled an Assault incident in Hartford City. The incident involved a city board member and a resident of Hartford. The report was sent to the Prosecutor's Office for review for charges.
• Uniform Response assisted Cass County Sheriff’s Office with a Pursuit that came into Porter Township. Stop sticks were successfully deployed and the suspect vehicle came to a stop shortly after that. The Decatur man was TOT (turned over to) Cass Deputies. The passenger had a warrant for their arrest, so they were arrested and TOT Cass County Deputy’s as well.
• Uniform Response handled a Car vs. Bike Accident in Bangor Township. The bike rider was transported to the hospital with serious injuries but was in stable condition shortly after arrival. Our accident reconstructionist went to the scene and reconstructed the crash. The accident remains under investigation.
• Uniform Response had a Pursuit in Antwerp Township. A Deputy attempted to stop a vehicle for numerous traffic violations, but they failed to stop for the Deputy. When the driver stopped, he wouldn’t comply with the Deputy or assisting officer, hence, started resisting/fighting with them. The driver was lodged and now faces several charges.
• Uniform Response handled a Single Vehicle Crash in Decatur Township. The driver was not hurt during the crash. The investigation found that the driver was intoxicated and was lodged for operating under the influence of alcohol.
• Uniform Response Stopped a Vehicle in Geneva Township for going 100mph. The driver was intoxicated and lodged for operating under the influence of alcohol.
• Our Office of Domestic Preparedness/Emergency Management have been conducting Active Assailant Trainings for several places of worship throughout the county. They also conducted tornado drills for several county operated buildings this past week. All their activities have gone well.
• Our Office Participated in the Area 17 Special Olympics Team Send Off. It is an event I truly look forward to every year being able to eat lunch with the athletes and their families then es**rt them to the highway. Thank you to the Knights of Columbus out of Paw Paw for hosting this every year and allowing myself and others to participate in it.
• Uniform Response handled an MDOP (malicious destruction of property) at the Gobles Elementary School. The suspect was caught on camera in which he threw rocks through several windows. Our office was able to ID him as we’ve dealt with him in the past. Deputies were able to locate him, interview him, and he’s now lodged for the incident as well as a probation violation warrant.

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205 S. Kalamazoo Street
Paw Paw, MI
49079

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