Lake County Sheriff gives update on officer involved in crash, addresses public on patrols

Lake County Sheriff Oscar Martinez Jr. gave the following update on the officer who was involved in a crash Wednesday night, while also addressing the public on patrols:

“I’m pleased to share that the Lake County police officer injured in a head-on crash during a pursuit in Gary last night is out of the hospital and doing well. The crash happened during a special public safety enforcement in communities along the I-80/94 corridor.

While I’m grateful for this good news, it’s important to address inaccurate claims criticizing our department’s commitment to that area of Lake County. Recently, a guest on a podcast posted to social media suggested Lake County Sheriff’s Department police officers fail to serve communities north of Ridge Road.

Let’s set the record straight. That claim is simply false. Our police officers provide law enforcement services throughout the county every day. To suggest otherwise is irresponsible and offensive to the men and women who dedicate their lives to serve and protect all Lake County residents.

Consider the facts. For the past 8 years that I’ve been the Lake County Sheriff, our department has conducted monthly blitz operations focused on removing dangerous drivers, violent criminals, drug traffickers and other criminal suspects from our streets. Many of these special enforcements take place in the communities of Gary, Hammond and East Chicago – all north of Ridge Road. In fact, we are often contacted by residents there thanking our officers for their dedication to public safety.

In addition, our specialized High Crime Unit carries out strategic, targeted enforcement efforts in those cities on a daily basis along with our Patrol Unit.

While some choose to spread factually incorrect statements about our department, our officers remain focused on what matters most – delivering real results and making all of Lake County safer every day.

I respect the work of our officers and thank the neighborhoods we serve for their trust and cooperation. My commitment to our officers, our residents and our mission to serve and protect will not waver.