The police remind us: We take assaults seriously

Jenkins said reports of stranger-on-stranger attacks are rare in the area. Dahlinger agreed and said the situation was unique.

He added that while the department receives false reports, all reports are treated with the utmost seriousness.

“We take every case we deal seriously,” Dahlinger said. “We don’t form any preconceived notions about the reporting party or the circumstances, we just look at the facts.”

He said it’s law enforcement’s job to keep the community safe and reporting information helps protect all area residents.

“We are your source of information,” he said. “If there is potential information about something dangerous in our community, please call us. Never be afraid to reach out and ask questions… especially if you see something strange, suspicious or strange.”

Jenkins said if someone experiences an assault, it is extremely important to act quickly because every moment that passes can make it more difficult to conduct a thorough investigation. Victims can go to hospital for tests before immediately deciding to report to the police.

The community offers many resources for victims, including Palouse Alternatives to Violence, the Rural Crisis Center Network, and a variety of services provided by both WSU and the University of Idaho.

“If you see something, say something, whether you are a victim or a witness,” Jenkins said. “We are simply asking people to call us so that we can launch an investigation as quickly as possible, which increases the chances of solving a reported crime as quickly as possible and keeping the community safer.”

Pearce can be reached at [email protected].