New Othello Police Department officer sworn in
CHERYL SCHWEIZER | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 1 year, 1 month AGO
New Othello Police Department officer Oscar Munoz, right, shakes hands with Othello Mayor Shawn Logan, left, after being sworn in Monday.
CHERYL SCHWEIZER/COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD
Senior Reporter Cheryl Schweizer is a journalist with more than 30 years of experience serving small communities in the Pacific Northwest. She began her post-high-school education at Treasure Valley Community College and enerned her journalism degree at Oregon State University. After working for multiple publications, she has settled down at the Columbia Basin Herald and has been a staple of the newsroom for more than a decade. Schweizer’s dedication to her communities and profession has earned her the nickname “The Baroness of Bylines.” She covers a variety of beats including health, business and various municipalities. | July 29, 2025 8:17 PM
OTHELLO — Oscar Munoz returned to his hometown to start his law enforcement career. Munoz was sworn in as the newest Othello Police Department officer Monday.
“Oscar was born and raised in Othello,” said Mayor Shawn Logan prior to administering the oath of office. “He’s always taken pride in representing Othello since a young age.”
Munoz, a 2016 graduate of Othello High School, earned a degree in criminal justice from Washington State University. He graduated from the basic law enforcement academy in 2024.
Chief Dave Rehaume said Munoz’s first day on the job was July 4.
“He sort of hit the ground running, and we appreciate it,” Rehaume said. “You’ve made a difference already — listening to your peers, your people skills are coming alive, and that’s what we need to see. Policing is about creating relationships, and I believe you did that.”
Munoz said he appreciated the support of his wife, parents and the rest of his family for the support they have shown him.
“And all my fellow officers, who have welcomed me with open arms,” he said. “I’m excited to continue serving the community where I was born and raised. So excited for the future and God willing, will be here for a long time.”
Rehuame said that brought the Othello PD up to a full staff.
“Our average (officer’s experience) is three and a half years,” he said. “So that’s still young.”
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