After stroke, deputy sheriff needs support

COEUR d’ALENE — After suffering a stroke that left her partially paralyzed, a Kootenai County deputy sheriff and new mom is embarking on a lengthy rehabilitation.

Deputy Yvonne Cress, 35, recently welcomed a daughter with her husband. A U.S. Navy veteran, Cress has been with the Sheriff’s Office for six years.

While off-duty at home last week, Cress experienced a stroke that paralyzed the right side of her body.

“The Sheriff’s Office is a family and we will accompany the Cress family on this journey,” said Kootenai County Sheriff Bob Norris. “I wish Yvonne a speedy recovery so she can enjoy her beautiful, two-month-old baby girl.”

Cress used her fringe benefit time for the birth of her daughter and has minimal time off in reserve, according to the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office. That means she’ll soon be without pay and benefits.

Norris said he’s confident the agency and community can help the Cress family during this time.

The Kootenai County Sheriff Employees Association and the Sheriff’s Office are accepting donations to cover Cress’s medical expenses while she focuses on her physical recovery.

To donate, make a check out to the “Kootenai County Sheriff Employees Association” or “KCSEA” and enter “Deputy Cress” in the memo line.

Checks can be dropped off or mailed to the Sheriff’s Office at 5500 N. Government Way in Coeur d’Alene.

Contact Deputy Nick Franssen for questions: 208-446-1315 or 208-916-8515.