Woodford County EMA Search and Rescue

08/30/2026

This morning we hosted a Multi County Search and Rescue Exercise. SAR Teams from Woodford, Tazewell, McLean, LaSalle, and Peoria Counties, as well at Germantown Hills Fire Department Drone Team took part in this exercise.

08/28/2026

Good luck to one of our own as he starts the paramedic class journey today!

Good luck to Aidan as he starts his journey through paramedic school today!

08/22/2026

A few of our members attended the "Tedcon 2026" training this week for Emergency preparedness and medical awareness. Kent McCanless Scott Ireland Lori Marion Daniel Craig Dan Lang

08/01/2026

Today we supported two of our members, and all the St Jude runners as being one of the many public safety agencies escorting St. Jude runners. We had the opportunity to get a quick picture with our two members during their lunch stop!

07/28/2026

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved K9 Preacher, who answered his final call today.

K9 Preacher faithfully served the citizens of Woodford County with unwavering courage, loyalty, and dedication. Throughout his career, he stood beside his handler and fellow deputies, protecting our community and exemplifying the very best of law enforcement service. His commitment, bravery, and steadfast partnership will never be forgotten.

Today, we honor not only a remarkable K9, but also a trusted partner, loyal companion, and cherished member of the Woodford County Sheriff’s Office family.

We extend our deepest condolences to K9 Preacher’s handler, Sgt. Park, our deputies, and everyone whose lives were touched by him. Please keep them in your thoughts during this difficult time.

Rest easy, K9 Preacher. Your watch has ended, but your legacy will live on forever.

End of Watch: July 28, 2026

07/26/2026

06/28/2026

Great training we took part in yesterday

06/14/2026

A message from Sheriff Matt Smith:
Our hearts go out to everyone in the Washburn area affected by this week's storms. Our deputies were there, and we will continue to be there for you.
As our community begins the cleanup and recovery process, I want to make sure everyone is aware of a serious concern — storm chasers. And I don't mean the weather kind.
After every major storm, scammers move in fast. They go door to door offering repair work, tree removal, and cleanup services — often demanding large cash payments upfront and delivering little or nothing in return. They target good people at their most vulnerable moment.

Please protect yourself and your neighbors:

🚨 Never pay for services upfront in cash.

🚨 Always ask for a written contract and verify licensing.

🚨 Get multiple estimates before agreeing to any work.

🚨 If something feels off — trust that feeling.

If you encounter suspicious contractors or believe you've been targeted by a scam, please report it to the Woodford County Sheriff's Office immediately at
309-467-2375 or through the WCSO app at bit.ly/41qZyBc.
Washburn, you are not alone. We've got you.

— Sheriff Matt Smith
Woodford County Sheriff's Office

06/05/2026

***Wanted Armed and Dangerous***

Be on the lookout for Willie B. Franklin. Willie B. Franklin was identified as one of the suspects for the Washington incident on 6/4/2026. A traffic stop was attempted by law enforcement which ended in the vehicle crashing in Woodford County, West of Eureka. Willie fled on foot and his whereabouts are currently unknown. The Woodford County Sheriff's Office as well as many other local, state and federal law enforcement agencies spent several hours canvasing the area attempting to locate Willie.

If you encounter Willie, DO NOT APPROACH HIM, call 911 and report your encounter.

05/31/2026

Yesterday we took part in a SAR exercise hosted in LaSalle County!