ST. HELENS, Ore., May 29, 2026 — Several Columbia County employees and partner agencies were recognized by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Portland Field Office during its 4th Annual Community Awards Ceremony for their collaboration and leadership in public safety efforts.
The FBI presented its Law Enforcement Leadership Award to the Columbia County District Attorney’s Office in collaboration with the Columbia County Department of Community Justice and the Oregon Youth Authority.
Columbia County honorees included:
- Joshua Pond, District Attorney
- Cody Coughlin, Deputy District Attorney
- Stacia Tyacke, Assistant Director, Department of Community Justice
- Liz Ring, Juvenile Probation Officer, Department of Community Justice Juvenile Division
Also recognized were Sarika Kathuria, Assistant Attorney General with the Washington State Office of the Attorney General, and Molly Matherly, Juvenile Parole/Probation Officer with the Oregon Youth Authority.
Columbia County Commissioners formally recognized the employees and partner agencies during the Board of County Commissioners public meeting on May 27, 2026.
“This recognition reflects the professionalism and dedication of the people serving our community every day,” said Kellie Smith, Chair of the Columbia County Board of Commissioners. “Strong partnerships between local, state, and federal agencies play an important role in supporting public safety efforts across our region, and we are proud of the Columbia County employees who were recognized for their work.”
According to the FBI, the award recognizes agencies and personnel who demonstrated exceptional leadership and collaboration in support of public safety and community protection efforts. The FBI Portland Field Office presented the awards during a ceremony held May 21, 2026, at FBI headquarters in Portland. Additional information about the ceremony and award recipients is available at: https://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field-offices/portland/news/fbi-portland-hosts-4th-annual-community-awards-ceremony
The County values strong partnerships between law enforcement, community justice professionals, prosecutors, and public safety agencies working together to serve and protect Columbia County residents.
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