Shawver honored at sheriff's office

Nearly 150 persons attended a reception at the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office last week to honor departing members of the staff.

Playfully termed "The Last Buffalo Hunt," the guests included the county commissioners, various county and federal officials, the Sheriff's Citizens Advisory Council and many other county residents.

Greg Brown, the outgoing sheriff who was defeated last month in his bid for reelection, was upbeat as he prepares to leave office next month. He thanked his staff and expressed pride in their work and accomplishments.

One of those singled out for special praise was Sergeant Rich Shawver, who has been a key figure in Sisters area law enforcement for the past 12 years.

Shawver, who has more than 25 years of law enforcement experience, began his local service with the Black Butte Ranch Police Department in 1988.

Shawver joined the Sisters Police Department in 1990 and rose rapidly from patrolman to sergeant, to lieutenant and, finally, to chief.

He was Sisters Chief of Police when the department was assimilated into the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office in 1998 as part of a city contract for law enforcement services.

During last week's ceremonies, Brown presented Shawver with a plaque commemorating Shawver's service to the community. Brown expressed considerable praise for Shawver and his work.

Brown, another Sisters-area resident, was also honored by local citizens and received awards from the FBI and U.S. Forest Service.

In keeping with the theme of the event, Forest Service law enforcement agent Ron Pugh presented Brown with a buffalo sculpture.

Shawver is among those who obviously enjoyed working with Brown.

"Sheriff Brown is the best administrator I've ever had the pleasure of working with," said Shawver. "I've worked with a lot of them, and I truly mean it."