Sheriff says 'no arrests' during disaster emergency

In response to growing concerns regarding Kootenai County's Emergency Operations Plan, Sheriff Bob Norris said Thursday that individuals will not be arrested for refusing to evacuate during a disaster emergency.

"I, Sheriff Robert Norris, will not arrest, nor will any deputies arrest any person for not evacuating their home during a Disaster Emergency," a press release said. "Any person who chooses to remain in their home during a Disaster Emergency may do so without threat of arrest. I will interpose myself between a Kootenai County resident and any entity, federal, state, or local, who is threatening to arrest a person for not evacuating their home during a disaster."

Norris went on to say that Idaho statute 31-2202 is clear that the sheriff is vested with enforcing, or not enforcing, all statutes of Idaho code.

Norris emphasized that the primary goal of an emergency response disaster effort is to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents, and that cooperation is encouraged, but will not be enforced through arrest or legal penalties if a person chooses to remain in their home during a disaster emergency.

The Emergency Operations Plan is intended to safeguard lives and property during natural disasters, fires or other emergencies, the sheriff's office said. It serves as a coordination tool for response agencies, rather than a tactical guide against citizens. KCSO said while evacuations are strongly recommended, the choice to stay behind remains a personal one. 

The sheriff's office encourages residents to follow guidance to minimize risks and is dedicated to ensuring public safety, the release said.

Norris said he has been involved in over 100 disaster emergency responses in his career and noted that no one has ever been arrested for remaining in their home during a disaster. 

He also said he has observed the private sector offer equipment and resources and has never seen any commandeering of equipment. He said that communities come together during disasters and that Kootenai County will see a surge of companies and individuals offering services during these events. Planning and managing those resources is a key part of our emergency planning efforts.

"Our mission is to protect lives, not punish those who may choose to stay behind," Norris said in the release. "The purpose of the Emergency Operations Plan is to ensure that we have the resources, coordination, and clear communication necessary to respond effectively to emergencies. While we hope residents understand the safety risks and the intent behind issuing evacuations, we understand there are reasons people may not evacuate."