Major County Sheriffs of America

SHERIFF MICHAEL BOUCHARD after Michigan synagogue attack: “No kids, no staff were hurt." “One of the head of security was taken to the hospital. He got knocked down by the car when it breached the building.” "We've had 30 law enforcement officers taken to the hospitals for smoke inhalation."

It is with deep sorrow that the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office announces the passing of Sergeant Jason Whelen, who suffered a medical emergency while on duty on Tuesday, February 24th. Despite the immediate response and extensive life-saving efforts by fellow deputies and medical personnel, Sergeant Whelen tragically passed away. Sergeant Whelen began his career with the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office on October 15, 2007. Through his dedication, professionalism, and commitment to service, he was promoted to Sergeant on February 25, 2013. Throughout his career, he served this community with honor, integrity, and compassion. Sergeant Whelen was a proud husband and devoted father of four. He was known within the Sheriff’s Office for his kindness, steady leadership, love of Jesus Christ, and infectious smile. He brought positivity to those around him and was someone who could always be counted on. Our thoughts are with Sergeant Whelen’s family, friends, and colleagues during this incredibly difficult time. The Sheriff’s Office mourns the loss of a respected leader, a valued partner, and a cherished member of our law enforcement family. We ask the community to keep his loved ones and our Sheriff’s Office family in your thoughts.

The Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office is devastated to announce the line of duty death of Sergeant Michael Schlattman, who died this evening as a result of injuries sustained during a traffic stop on Interstate 40 eastbound near the 170. Sergeant Schlattman was hired by the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office on April 16, 2012, and was promoted to Sergeant on July 13, 2024. During his career, he served the people of Bernalillo County in multiple assignments, including time as a detective in Special Investigations and Auto Theft, and as a task force officer with the United States Marshals Service and the Drug Enforcement Administration. At the time of his death, Sergeant Schlattman was assigned as a Sergeant in the East Mountains. On the evening of February 23, 2026, just before 5:00 p.m., Sergeant Schlattman called over the radio to advise he was conducting a traffic stop. While he was outside the vehicle, a semi truck struck the rear of his department issued vehicle, ultimately pinning him beneath. Sergeant Schlattman died on scene as a result of his injuries. This is a heartbreaking loss for the Schlattman family, the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office, and the entire community we serve. Sergeant Schlattman was the kind of leader deputies hope for and families trust. He was known for being present, involved, and relentless in his support of others. He was not a supervisor who stayed behind a desk. He was consistently out in the field, finding the work, backing his deputies, answering calls for service, and pushing to be proactive. He was the steady voice and the steady presence that made everyone around him better. “This is every agency’s worst nightmare, and tonight it is ours,” said Sheriff John Allen. “Sergeant Schlattman was a servant leader and a protector in the truest sense. He was the kind of supervisor who never asked a deputy to do something he would not do himself. Our hearts are broken, and we are asking our community to carry this family, and this agency, in your prayers.” The Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s support and compassion as we navigate the days ahead. We ask the community to keep Sergeant Schlattman’s family, friends, and colleagues in your thoughts and prayers. We also ask for patience and respect as investigators continue their work and as the family is given space to grieve. Information regarding memorial services will be shared as soon as it is available and the family is ready.

The Gwinnett County Sheriff's Office was honored to participate in this year's Black History Month Celebration at the Gwinnett Justice and Administration Center. The event celebrated the invaluable contributions of African Americans within our community.