Alpine County Sheriff's Office

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.