Idaho County Sheriff's Office Honors Life-Saving Actions

Deputies and residents recognized for bravery and selfless service

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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The Idaho County Sheriff's Office held a special awards ceremony to recognize four individuals for acts of bravery and selfless service. Sheriff Doug Ulmer presented commendations to deputies and community members who stepped forward in critical moments to save lives, including rescuing a motorist from floodwaters, saving a kayaker from the Clearwater River, and pulling an unconscious woman from a burning home.

Why it matters

The awards highlight the dedication and heroism of both law enforcement and local residents in Idaho County, showcasing the community's spirit of service and willingness to help others in times of crisis. The recognition from state and county leaders underscores the importance of these life-saving actions and the value placed on public safety.

The details

According to the Sheriff's Office, Deputy Jabari James entered swift-moving floodwaters to rescue a motorist trapped in a vehicle, while Zachary Wilkins and Benjamin Wilkins rescued a kayaker who had capsized in the icy Clearwater River. Senior Deputy Scott Sumpter was honored for forcing entry into a burning home and carrying an unconscious woman to safety.

  • On April 14, 2024, Deputy Jabari James rescued a motorist during widespread flooding.
  • On January 28, 2026, Zachary Wilkins and Benjamin Wilkins rescued a kayaker from the Clearwater River.
  • On February 1, 2026, Senior Deputy Scott Sumpter responded to a house fire in Riggins.

The players

Doug Ulmer

The Idaho County Sheriff who presented the commendations.

Jabari James

A deputy with the Idaho County Sheriff's Office who rescued a motorist trapped in floodwaters.

Zachary Wilkins

A resident who rescued a kayaker from the Clearwater River.

Benjamin Wilkins

A resident who rescued a kayaker from the Clearwater River.

Scott Sumpter

A senior deputy with the Idaho County Sheriff's Office who rescued an unconscious woman from a burning home.

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What they’re saying

“Idaho County is blessed beyond measure. Not only do we have the most dedicated and honorable deputies working for our county; we also have extraordinary residents.”

— Doug Ulmer, Idaho County Sheriff (dailyfly.com)

The takeaway

The actions of these deputies and community members demonstrate the importance of public safety and the willingness of Idahoans to step up and help others in times of crisis. This recognition highlights the strong sense of community and the value placed on heroism and selfless service in Idaho County.