Portland Police Department

08/28/2026

Nate Chrisman had an opportunity to do a ride along with Officer Brewster. He had an opportunity to look at booking at the Jay County Sheriff’s Office, 911 dispatch and Portland Police dispatch.

He is exact words “I had an awesome time” and can’t wait to do it again.

08/26/2026

I want to clear up some inaccurate statements about traffic control during the Tri-State Gas Engine and Tractor Show.

There were pictures in a post that appeared on social media probably taken Monday, not today. The show officially started today. Those pictures do not show what officers were doing today or what traffic looked like throughout the day.

The Assistant Chief, other officers, and I all monitored U.S. 27 and County Road 100 North, the Votaw Street entrance, and other areas of the city. Much of the morning was spent directing traffic at the fairgrounds entrance on Votaw St, where the biggest problem was occurring.

Traffic at U.S. 27 and County Road 100 North was not heavily congested for much of the day. Later this afternoon, when traffic became heavy leaving the fairgrounds, the Assistant Chief, two other officers, and I were standing in the intersection directing traffic. Those moments were not photographed or mentioned. Of course.

I've heard comments that Officers “sit at the tables and do nothing” is simply not true. Officers watch traffic and step into the busy intersection when it is needed. Stopping traffic when it is not necessary can make congestion worse and create more danger.

We normally staff that intersection during the busiest times on Friday and Saturday, as we have throughout my career. We also respond at other times when traffic conditions require it, just as we did today.

Our officers must also answer calls and handle problems throughout Portland. The number of people and vehicles in town increases during this event, but our staffing does not!

I am proud of the work being done by our officers, fairgrounds staff, and everyone helping make this event successful. Constructive concerns are welcome, but old pictures and one-sided comments do not tell the full story. Please be patient, drive carefully, and recognize the people working hard to keep everyone safe.
-Chief Mock

08/16/2026

PORTLAND POLICE DEPARTMENT, INCIDENT UPDATE

On Sunday, August 16, 2026, Portland Police Officers attempted to stop a vehicle after observing driving behavior that raised concerns for public safety. The driver failed to stop and led officers on a vehicle pursuit through portions of Portland and into the surrounding area.

During the pursuit, the driver allegedly continued to disregard Officers’ emergency lights and sirens and operated the vehicle in a manner that placed responding Officers, other motorists, and the public at significant risk. The pursuit ultimately ended after the vehicle left the roadway, and the driver was taken into custody.

Alcohol is believed to have been a contributing factor in this incident. The investigation remains ongoing, including the completion of appropriate testing and review of the incident.

The Portland Police Department would like to recognize the professionalism and good work of the Officers involved and thank the Jay County Sheriff’s Office Deputies who assisted during the incident.

Fortunately, a dangerous situation was brought to a conclusion without more serious consequences.

Any criminal charges associated with this incident are allegations only. All persons are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

08/05/2026

More photos from National Night Out!!

08/05/2026

Another successful National Night Out!! I can’t thank everyone enough for your help in making the night extremely successful. Thanks to all those organizations and departments for your donations and help.

08/04/2026

National Night Out is a nationwide community-building event that brings law enforcement and residents together in a positive, relaxed setting. It gives families an opportunity to meet the officers who serve their community, ask questions, learn about local services, and build stronger relationships based on trust and familiarity.

Here in Portland, National Night Out has always been about more than just the Portland Police Department. We proudly invite all local first responders, including firefighters, EMS personnel, dispatchers, Sheriff and Deputies, and other public-safety partners, so the community can meet and get to know everyone who works to keep Portland and Jay County safe.

Most interactions with first responders happen during emergencies or difficult moments. National Night Out gives us the chance to connect under better circumstances, have some snacks, conversations, let children see the equipment, and remind everyone that public safety works best when the community and its first responders know and support one another.

We hope families will come out, spend time with us, and get to know the people behind the uniforms. See you at Hudson Family Park today 5PM - 7PM.
-Chief Mock

08/03/2026

Thanks to a generous donation, the first 60 kids will get a backpack with colored pencils coloring book and a lunch box tomorrow at National Night Out.

Reminder each child will also get a free scoop of ice cream with any toppings they want. Thanks to the Portland Fire Department!

We hope to see all of you there tomorrow!!

The Portland Police Department will be hosting National Night Out Tuesday August 4. The event will be held at Hudson Family Park from 5-7 PM!

07/29/2026

The Portland Police Department extends our deepest condolences to the family, friends, fellow officers, and community of Lynn Town Marshal Brad Fisher.

Marshal Fisher tragically lost his life while serving and protecting others. His courage, dedication, and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

Please keep his loved ones and the entire Lynn community in your thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time.

Rest in peace, Marshal Fisher. We honor your service and sacrifice. 🖤💙🖤

07/28/2026

🖊️Today, the Portland Police Department participated in the second phase of radio system training as part of the Jay County radio communications project.

Since 2024, public safety and elected official stakeholders have been working diligently to improve emergency communications through this countywide initiative.

📡Reliable radio communication is essential for effective emergency response. In critical situations where every second counts, dependable communication keeps first responders connected, improves coordination, and helps make our communities safer.

A special thank you to the Integrated Public Safety Commission - Indiana aka IDHS Office of Emergency Communications and Emergency Radio Service, Inc. for their support in making this training possible.

07/27/2026

Thanks to Portland Morning Optimist for donating to National Night. The event will be held again August 4 from 5-7PM at Hudson Park.
All first responders from the Portland Police Department, Jay County Sheriff’s Office, Jay County EMA, IU Health, Portland Fire, Lutheran Air, Jay County EMS.