Washoe County, NV — In light of this week’s planned protests across the country, Washoe County Sheriff Darin Balaam issued the following statement:
“As Sheriff, my highest obligation is to defend and protect life, liberty, and property. Peaceful protest is a fundamental right protected by the Constitution, and I will always defend the ability of our citizens to make their voices heard. However, let me be absolutely clear—violence, destruction of property, and assaults on our public servants or private citizens will not be tolerated in Washoe County.
We are committed to ensuring public safety for all, and any actions that threaten peace and order will be met with firm and lawful consequences. Compromising the safety of our community is not a protected right. I encourage every resident to choose unity over division, dialogue over destruction, and peace over provocation. In times of distress, we must come together—not to inflame, but to heal and strengthen the community we all call home.”
The Washoe County Sheriff’s Office will continue to work closely with local, state, and federal partners to ensure all demonstrations remain peaceful. Additional resources will be deployed to safeguard critical infrastructure, public spaces, and community events.
