Alpine County Sheriff's Office

08/18/2026

Celebrating 250 Years of the United States of America 🇺🇸

In 2026, our nation celebrates a remarkable milestone, the 250th Anniversary of the United States of America.

To help commemorate this historic occasion, the Alpine County Sheriff’s Office is proud to introduce our special 250th Anniversary Badge.

The badge features the dates 1776–2026, honoring 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the founding of our nation. As law enforcement officers, we are proud to carry a badge that represents not only our commitment to serving Alpine County, but also the freedoms, ideals, and traditions that have shaped our country for the past 250 years.

Our deputies and staff will proudly wear these commemorative badges through July 4, 2027, giving our community an opportunity to see and recognize this special piece of history.

The Sheriff’s badge has long represented service, duty, honor, and a commitment to protect others. For the next year, ours will also serve as a reminder of the incredible history behind the country we are privileged to serve.

From the founding of our nation in 1776 to today, the United States has been built on the sacrifices and service of generations of Americans.

We are proud to celebrate 250 years of America and proud to serve the people of Alpine County.

06/30/2026

Due to increasing fire danger and dry conditions, the U.S. Forest Service has implemented Tier 1 Fire Restrictions on National Forest lands within Alpine County. These restrictions are intended to reduce the risk of human-caused wildfires and help protect our communities, visitors, and natural resources.

Under Tier 1 Fire Restrictions, certain activities are prohibited or restricted, including, but not limited to:

+ Building, maintaining, attending, or using campfires except where specifically authorized.

+ Smoking outside of enclosed vehicles, buildings, or designated safe areas.

+ Welding or operating torches with an open flame.

+ Operating certain equipment or engaging in activities that may create sparks or ignite dry vegetation.

+ Target Shooting in any fire-restricted area.

Visitors are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the complete list of restrictions before recreating on National Forest lands and to exercise extreme caution while enjoying the outdoors. Even a single spark can result in a devastating wildfire.

The Alpine County Sheriff's Office will be actively assisting with enforcement efforts throughout the county. Individuals found violating fire restrictions may be cited under Chapter 8 of the Alpine County Code, in addition to any applicable federal regulations. Violators may also be held financially responsible for suppression costs and damages if their actions result in a wildfire.

The Sheriff's Office urges everyone to do their part in preventing wildfires by following all fire restrictions, properly extinguishing permitted fires, avoiding activities that may create sparks, and reporting any signs of smoke or fire immediately by calling 911.

For the latest information regarding fire restrictions and fire danger, please contact the U.S. Forest Service or visit their official website.

06/13/2026

Undersheriff Green was asked to be the key note speaker for the 157th Butte Law Enforcement Academy.

Undersheriff Green addressed the cadets and spoke to how relationships within the profession and with their communities are so important.

The Alpine County Sheriffs Office wishes to extend our most sincere congratulations to the graduating class of the 157th Law Enforcement Academy.

We are honored Butte Law Enforcement Academy asked our representatives of Alpine County to be the class speaker and represent our county.

Congratulations class 157!

06/13/2026

The Alpine County Sheriffs Office is proud to introduce our three newest graduates from the 157th Butte Law Enforcement Academy.

Recruits Hannah LoFranco, Dominik Pasillas and Raymundo Garcia-Alvarez graduated this last Friday after 23 weeks of grueling physical, and mental academic training.

Starting this week, all three recruits will start their rigorous 12-16 week field training program.

If you see them out and about, please say hello and welcome them to the Alpine County family.

Pictured below: Undersheriff Taylor Green, Sergeant Joe Florence, Deputies LoFranco, Pasillas, and Alvarez-Garcia.

Congrats!

06/08/2026

06/08/2026

04/30/2026

Early this morning, deputies responded to a reported mountain lion incident in the Markleeville area. Upon arrival, it was confirmed that a mountain lion had killed a domestic dog. The animal fled the area prior to law enforcement's arrival.

This incident is consistent with recent activity in the region, where mountain lions have entered residential areas and killed pets.

Residents are reminded to refer to the previously issued mountain lion safety tips. We want to reiterate the importance of not leaving dogs unsupervised or off leash, particularly during early morning and evening hours when wildlife is most active.

The Sheriff’s Office is continuing to monitor the situation and coordinate with wildlife officials as needed. Residents should report any sightings or concerning behavior immediately.

04/08/2026

The Alpine County Sheriff’s Office responded to a large mountain lion inside of a residence in the Woodfords area. The mountain lion entered the residence through an exterior pet door. Unfortunately, a dog was located in the residence deceased.

The mountain lion was able to escape from the inside of the residence and retreated back into the woods.

Fish and Wildlife personnel are responding, along with a biologist and trapper.

As of right now, the mountain lion is still outstanding.

While mountain lions are native to our region and sightings are not uncommon in rural and mountainous communities, residents are advised to exercise heightened awareness and take appropriate precautions.

Mountain lions are generally elusive and avoid human contact. However, drought conditions, seasonal movements of prey, or habitat encroachment can increase the likelihood of sightings near homes and roadways.

Safety Tips for Residents

To Protect Yourself and Your Family:

• Do not hike or walk alone, especially at dawn, dusk, or nighttime hours when mountain lions are most active.
• Keep children within sight and close to you while outdoors.
• If you encounter a mountain lion:
o Stay calm. Do not run.
o Make yourself larger by raising your arms or opening a jacket.
o Maintain eye contact and speak firmly and loudly.
o Slowly back away while facing the animal.
o If attacked, fight back aggressively using any available object.
To Protect Pets:
• Keep pets indoors at night.
• Do not allow pets to roam freely.
• Walk dogs on a leash and avoid areas with heavy brush.
• Install motion lighting around your home.

To Protect Livestock:

• Secure livestock in enclosed shelters or barns at night.
• Use predator-resistant fencing where feasible.
• Remove carcasses promptly to avoid attracting predators.
• Consider the use of guardian animals where appropriate.

Residents are reminded not to attempt to approach, track, or harass wildlife. Doing so increases the risk of injury and may violate state wildlife regulations.

If you observe a mountain lion behaving aggressively, showing no fear of humans, or remaining in a residential area for an extended period, please contact the Alpine County Sheriff’s Office immediately. In the event of an emergency, call 911.

The Sheriff’s Office will continue to monitor the situation and coordinate with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife as necessary.

We appreciate the community’s cooperation in keeping Alpine County safe and encourage residents to remain vigilant while enjoying our beautiful mountain environment.