A sampling of local agencies badges.

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Press release from the Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury:

For many years, Humboldt County Civil Grand Juries have focused on disaster preparedness within Humboldt County at the local government and operational area levels.  

This year, the Grand Jury looked at operational preparations, focusing on the boots on the ground. This investigation looked primarily at local law enforcement agencies because they are among the most visible players in local disaster response.

The Grand Jury did extensive research on disaster preparedness plans, attended safety presentations and demonstrations, and interviewed several local law enforcement agencies.

Funding for local field response training and for the acquisition and maintenance of specialized emergency/disaster response equipment is an issue for all Humboldt County law enforcement agencies.

Local law enforcement officers know what needs to be done to protect their communities during a disaster. They want to protect and serve their communities effectively during disasters. Still, many simply don’t have enough funding or personnel to respond to local disasters, which they believe their communities deserve

The most common challenge we heard was that law enforcement agencies’ ability to respond efficiently and effectively to local disasters was hampered by insufficient funding and staffing. 

Local law enforcement agencies do the best they can with the limited resources they have.

The Grand Jury Report Emergency Preparedness - The Role of Local Law Enforcement Agencies [click here to download in pdf form] was published 2/17/2026 on the Humboldt County website Civil Grand Jury | Humboldt County, CA - Official Website.

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PREVIOUSLY in 2025-26 Civil Grand Jury: