In a move that strengthens public safety for Bend and the surrounding Deschutes County area, the sheriff’s office has added a new K9 team to its patrol division. Deputy Marshall Dean was paired with Creed, a two‑year‑old Belgian Malinois, after a generous $20,000 donation from Sisters residents Gary and Dixie Baker made the acquisition possible.
Funding and goals
Sheriff Ty Rupert explained that the donation aligns with the agency’s long‑term operational goals. “We are pleased to see Deputy Dean take on this new assignment with Creed and we are grateful for the donation that made it possible to expand our K9 team this year,” Rupert said. “Our long‑term goal is to have a K9 unit on every patrol team, because dogs serve as effective de‑escalation tools and an added layer of protection that keeps our deputies safe on every call.”
Training and capabilities
Creed is a dual‑purpose K9 trained in both detection and apprehension. The dog can locate specific types of contraband and assist deputies in apprehending fleeing or dangerous suspects. Before joining the sheriff’s office, Creed completed advanced training overseas and further development at Tarheel Canine Training in South Carolina. After being paired with Deputy Dean this summer, the team completed additional certification through the Oregon Police K9 Association.
Deputy Dean’s background
Deputy Dean began his law‑enforcement career in 2017 with Benton County and has served on the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Unit for three years. His experience, combined with Creed’s specialized training, provides a valuable resource for the department’s patrol operations.
First major deployment
The new team saw action on Saturday, Oct. 3, when a driver fled a traffic stop and sought refuge inside a residence in the Deschutes River Woods neighborhood. Deputy Dean deployed Creed, who quickly located the suspect hiding under mattresses. The swift detection allowed deputies to arrest the individual without incident, demonstrating the practical benefits of the K9 program.
Community impact
Local officials highlighted that the addition of the K9 team was made possible through the Bakers’ contribution, underscoring the role of community support in enhancing public safety resources. Residents can expect a stronger police presence and faster response times as the sheriff’s office works toward its goal of placing a K9 unit on every patrol team.
Looking ahead
The sheriff’s office plans to continue expanding its K9 capabilities, with additional training and potential future donations helping to fund more teams. As the program grows, the department anticipates improved de‑escalation outcomes, increased officer safety, and a more effective deterrent against criminal activity throughout Deschutes County.
Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.
