The City of Susanville’s Police Department, and the community as a whole, are grieving tonight after the announcement that Police Officer Ryan Barham, who had worked in Lassen County law enforcement for twenty years, had passed away while hospitalized in Reno, Nevada. Barham was 43-years old.
“Officer Barham is a beloved member of our police force,” said Interim Police Chief Ryan Cochran in a brief statement late this afternoon. “He is well respected, hardworking, skilled, dedicated, and took pride in serving our community. He will be greatly missed as an officer and friend.”
Officer Barham joined the police department in January of 2019, serving as a Field Training Officer, Senior Explorer advisor and a Rangemaster.
He began his law enforcement career in July of 1998 with the Yreka Police Department and first began serving the citizens of Lassen County in May of 2001, when he was sworn in as a Lassen County Deputy Sheriff. After serving as a Deputy Sheriff and Police Officer in different jurisdictions, Barham wanted to return to the area he had always considered home.
“On behalf of the Susanville Police Department, the City of Susanville staff, the Susanville City Council we would like to offer our deepest sympathies to Officer Barham’s family, friends, colleagues, and loved ones.”
