K-9 Patrol

K-9 Patrol

Canines (K-9s) serve as an important tool for law enforcement. Their sense of smell far exceeds that of humans. No machine in the world matches a K-9’s scenting capabilities. With their noses, they help their handlers locate hidden suspects and possible evidence left behind at the scene of a crime.

With their loud barking, they also deter suspects. Often, the presence of a K-9 leads suspects to surrender peacefully instead of fighting or attempting to flee from Deputies.

Sheriff’s Office K-9 Deputy Teams

The Deputy and their dog live, train, and deploy together. They complete extensive training regularly. Each year, the Oregon Police Canine Association certifies them.

K-9 Deputy Tommy (drug detection)

K-9 Deputy Tommy joined the Benton County Sheriff’s Office in May 2017. He is partnered with Deputy Blaser. Tommy is a mixed-breed Springer Spaniel who detects Cocaine, Methamphetamine, and Heroin and maintains his drug detection certification. Deputy Blaser brings previous experience as a K-9 drug detection handler.  

K-9 Deputy Asco (tracking/apprehension)

K-9 Deputy Asco is a German Shepherd and joined the Benton County Sheriff’s Office in 2022. He is partnered with Deputy Young. The Oregon Police Canine Association certifies Asco in tracking and apprehension.

Deployment

The BCSO K-9 teams perform tracking, trailing, wind scenting, building searches, and locate evidence or suspects. They also protect law enforcement officers and others. The deputies transport the K-9s in specially-equipped patrol vehicles. These vehicles maintain air conditioning or heat while parked.

Patrol K-9s do not conduct search and rescue for missing persons. Our Region Three/K-9 SAR Search and Rescue Unit has specially trained K-9s for this type of search.