Employee Spotlight: Officer Erin Mason
Growing up in Hood River, Officer Erin Mason knew from a young age that he wanted to become a police officer. He comes from a family of first responders, and many of his cousins now serve in neighboring law enforcement agencies, as well as in fire and EMS roles. In high school, he went on ride-alongs before joining the Hood River County Sheriff’s Office as a volunteer reserve. He later volunteered for the Hood River Police Department (HRPD) for two years before being hired as a full-time officer.
Officer Mason has now served with HRPD for 25 years and is looking forward to retirement this summer.
Over the course of his career, he has worked patrol, served as detective, and taught as a field training officer and use-of-force instructor. HRPD rotates the detective position to give officers new opportunities and experiences. Mason believes the role helps officers become more well-rounded, gain a greater appreciation for patrol work, and build stronger cases. He recently returned to patrol after spending the previous five years as the department’s sole detective.
As a detective, one of the biggest challenges he faced was the rise in cybercrime. One of the most frustrating aspects of investigating fraud cases is that by the time they reach the detective, the money is often already gone. Recovering funds for victims can be extremely difficult.
What Mason appreciates most about working at HRPD is the sense of family that comes with being part of a small agency. He knows staff across all positions and values those relationships. He also attributes much of his success as a police officer to his communication skills and his ability to connect with people.
“You have to be a human when you talk to people. There’s a big difference between listening, and listening to understand,” he explained. “I think the best tool you can have is people-skills and being able to communicate.”
Outside of work, Mason has coached the high school golf and tennis teams and is an avid golfer himself. He also enjoys camping with his wife and kids. Recently, they acquired a camper van and have travelled across the country. After resisting his wife’s love for the band Phish for ten years, he has now attended over twelve Phish concerts and will be flying out for one the day after his final shift. He then looks forward to enjoying the rest of the summer road-tripping and golfing.
Thank you Officer Mason, and best wishes on your next chapter!
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