From the Desk of Sheriff Abbott – 4/24/2026

• This past Wednesday was Administrative Professionals Day. I’d like to give a shout out to ours here at the office. They are good at what they do, very professional, and always leaves a positive experience with those in the public that has had contact with them at our office.
• Sgt Weers assisted MSP on a Domestic Assault in Hartford Township. The suspect fled on foot and was reported to be armed. Sgt Weers put the drone up with the night vision activated and located the suspect prone out in a thick covered area. He was able to guide the Troopers to the area, and they gave commands to the suspect. He did obey the commands and walked out to the Troopers to which he was placed under arrest. Great teamwork once again.
• Deputies handled a BOL for a Vehicle at a Business in Almena Township that almost went over a Retaining Wall. Deputies located the vehicle in question, and while investigating the incident, the driver tried to leave. Deputies were able to detain her so she couldn’t and continue to investigate the situation. It was found she was intoxicated and had her three children in the car. She was lodged for the incident and now faces several charges.  The children were TOT a grandparent. A huge shout out to the caller on this, you may have saved not only the children’s lives, but others as well.
• Our Victim Service Unit attended the Michigan Sheriffs’ Association 2026 Victim Advocate State Conference in Lansing this week. At the conference, there are a lot of topics that are covered to help them with their jobs here being an advocate. We are blessed in our county to have all the individuals that are part of our team here. They donate their time, assist numerous people and professionals throughout the year to help with different calls that take place. I personally cannot thank them enough for everything they do not only for the office, but for our community.
• Just a Reminder that “Road Closed” means just that. We consistently see drivers ignoring the signs, going around the barricades, etc. Keep in mind that you can be cited for driving through a closed road area. Deputies consistently hear when they stop vehicles for the violation “I do it all the time” or “I didn’t think it was that big of deal.” Our office works at times with the Van Buren County Road Commission to cite drivers for driving through a road closed area so keep that in mind. Also, it’s not right drivers putting the VBCRC workers in danger.
• Our Microchip Event was a Huge Success at Animal Control. 57 dogs were microchipped during the event. Thank you goes out to everyone that participated to make this happen and who was able to work it. Speaking of Animal Control, our Director Magen Spiece was asked to judge the photo contest held by VBDL in Lawrence. The theme was ‘Pets and Animals’. She had a great time doing it and was honored to be asked to participate. Lastly, Animal Control was able to transfer 13 dogs to the Little Traverse Bay Humane Society. We are very grateful for all the partnerships across the state to help find dogs like these their forever homes.
• Deputies handled a Single Car Crash on I94hwy near the 63mm in Antwerp Township. The driver lost control and went into several cable barriers. Deputies found that the driver had been drinking, hence, causing the crash. The driver was arrested for operating under the influence of alcohol with a high alcohol content.
• Deputies responded to a Larceny in Progress in Columbia Township. The property owner found two people stealing items from his property, so he blocked in their vehicle until Deputies could arrive. Deputies arrested one of the suspects for larceny and trespassing.