OKANOGAN COUNTY, Wash. – The North Central Washington Narcotics Task Force is facing a critical funding shortfall after losing a vital federal grant. The Okanogan County Sheriff's Office reported that the task force, which combats drug trafficking and related crimes, is in jeopardy.
The task force was previously supported by the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant, a federal grant aiding approximately 20 narcotic task forces across Washington. However, this funding source has been eliminated, leaving the task force without necessary financial support.
The Sheriff's Office emphasized the gravity of the situation, noting there is no replacement funding from state or federal reserves. This financial gap follows the Trump administration's decision to terminate nearly 400 Departmen