News

On November 21, 2025, a Washington County jury found Matthew Allan Stehr, age 39, guilty of rape in the first degree, four counts of sodomy in the first degree, seven counts of sexual abuse in the first degree, and luring a minor.

On Saturday, November 22, 2025, the City of Cornelius, in partnership with the Washington County Sheriff's Office, hosted the 10th Annual Cornelius Community Dinner.

If Washington County gets hit by severe winter weather this year, crews will work 24/7 with 12-hour shifts.

On November 14, 2025, a Washington County jury found Jeffrey Allen Braukmann, age 54, guilty of rape in the first degree, unlawful sexual penetration in the first degree, and sexual abuse in the first degree.

Jacob Michael Anderson, age 35, guilty of bias crime in the first degree and reckless driving.

November's WCSO newsletter is here! This month's issue is packed with important updates and stories from across Washington County.

Get prepared and stay safe this holiday season with these tips.

The Hillsboro Shelter joins the Washington County shelter program, representing over 400 beds county-wide thanks to critical Supportive Housing Services funding.

On Thursday, November 6, 2025, at 4:13 a.m., deputies serving the city of Cornelius responded to a report of an explosive device being thrown at a door near the 300 block of N 10th Avenue in Cornelius.

Detectives with the Washington County Sheriff’s Office thwarted a murder-for-hire plot by arresting three men.

Learn about new changes in place for School Exclusion Day 2026, what they mean for your family and how you can prepare.

Infórmese sobre los nuevos cambios establecidos para el Día de Exclusión Escolar del 2026, qué significan para su familia y cómo puede prepararse.

On November 6, 2025, a Washington County jury found Norberto Nestor Muniz Jr. guilty of murder and first-degree abuse of a corpse. Senior Deputy District Attorney Chris Lewman and Deputy District Attorney Bryce Bissinger prosecuted this case.

On November 6, 2025, a Washington County jury found Desha Levann Madkins guilty of eight counts of mail theft or receipt of stolen mail and possession of a burglary tool or theft device.

On November 6, 2025, a Washington County jury found Jerone Enrico Cuie guilty of possession of a weapon by an inmate, felon in possession of a firearm, and supplying contraband.

Honoring Corporal Tom Millsap’s memory, we shared the news of his unexpected passing on Sunday, October 26th, while he was at home with family.

On Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at 1:47 p.m., deputies serving the city of Cornelius responded to a report of an unknown man pointing a gun at the caller near the 1000 block of S Alpine Street.

The Turk Road Bridge over Dairy Creek is made of timber, aging and weight-limited.

After votes were tallied on November 4, 2025, it was evident that voters in Washington County supported funding the Public Safety Levy. Confirmation of the vote will take place on December 1, 2025, and is a testament to the long-standing community support

Statement of thanks from the Washington County Board of Commissioners on unofficial election results showing passage of the Library and Public Safety levies.