The Sheriff's K-9 Unit consists of Deputy Brad Wright and his canine “Dar” a patrol tracking dog.  Deputy Wright is Crook County Sheriff’s Office first patrol K-9 team.  Deputy Wright started with the Sheriff’s Office in July 2002.  In March 2007 Deputy Wright completed his certification with K-9 Dar.  Since that time the K-9 team has been deployed numerous times and has had several captures with many law enforcement agencies in Central Oregon.

The K-9 dog is trained to track and locate, to follow and alert on fresh human scent which includes suspects who have walked or run away from crime scenes or who have barricaded themselves in a building or house. The canine is also trained to protect the handler and to hold a violent or dangerous person from escaping. The K-9 team is on-call 24-hours a day.

K-9 Dar can also be utilized in tracking lost children in a search and rescue event.  Prior to being deployed as a certified canine team, each handler and canine must complete a minimum of 350 hours of basic training and pass the Oregon Police Canine Association Standards. These standards are demonstrated annually. Additionally, each team trains weekly to maintain proficiency.

The K-9 Unit also participates in public demonstrations every year. The canine is a crowd favorite and usually steals the hearts of adults and children. To request a canine demonstration, please contact the sheriff’s office at, (541) 447-6398.

Called to Give My All
I am a deputy in a canine crew.
I've been trained to see it through.
When danger's near my ears perk up,
they taught me that as a little pup.
I'm often there to protect your rights;
My presence sometimes hinders fights.
I never attack with thought to kill,
when subduing one, my job I fill.
I never worry a single thought,
as to how I'll fare at a certain spot.
The love I have for a handler's care,
Is all I need, each day to fare.
And if some day my luck turns bad, I'll relish all the joys I've had.
To be with men who stand for good, in a special kind of brotherhood.
The story's end by now you know, of how I tried for a better show.
I did my best, though I did fall, when I was called and gave my all.

-Author Unknown