The Deschutes County Sheriff's Office Asks Community To Help Reach $50,000 Fundraising Goal For This Year’s Shop With A Cop (Photo) - 11/09/26

Bend, Ore. – The Deschutes County Sheriff's Office is asking for the community's help in reaching its fundraising goal for the annual Shop with a Cop program, a cherished holiday tradition that helps local children and families during the holiday season.

The program has already raised $31,695.39 since July 1st, but the Sheriff’s Office set a $50,000 goal to ensure as many children as possible can participate in this year's event.

Each year, children are nominated through local schools, community partners, and service organizations. During Shop with a Cop, children are paired with deputies and other law enforcement officers for a special shopping experience to purchase warm clothing, school supplies, necessities, and holiday gifts. The event provides practical support for families and fosters positive interactions between youth and local law enforcement.

"One of the most rewarding parts of Shop With a Cop is seeing the smiles on the faces of the children we serve," said Sheriff Ty Rupert. "It’s an opportunity for our community to come together and make a lasting impact on the lives of local kids. Every donation helps provide children with necessities, holiday gifts, and an experience that reminds them they are valued, supported, and not forgotten."

The holiday season can present financial challenges for many families. Donations to Shop with a Cop help provide children with memorable experiences and much-needed essentials. While children will pick out toys and other fun gifts for their families, they also fill shopping carts with clothes, winter coats, shoes, blankets, pillows, pots and pans, dishes, and even heating units. In past years, the Sheriff’s Office has also provided beds for children who may be sleeping on the floor.

Community members can support Shop with a Cop in several ways:

• Donate online through the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office website.
• Mail or drop off a check or cash to:
  • Deschutes County Sheriff's Office
  • Attn: Shop with a Cop
  • 63333 U.S. Highway 20
  • Bend, OR 97703

No contribution is too small, and every dollar helps local children experience the magic of the holiday season.

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The Deschutes County Sheriff's Office Seizes 228 Roosters In Large-Scale Cockfighting Operation Northeast Of Redmond (Photo) - 11/05/26

Redmond, Ore. – Following a long-term investigation, detectives with the Street Crimes Unit at the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office served a search warrant on Wednesday, November 4, at a property located northeast of Redmond off O’Neil Highway. Detectives discovered 228 roosters allegedly being used in a large-scale cockfighting operation.

The investigation began after neighbors reported ongoing concerns about excessive noise, large gatherings, and increased late-night traffic at the property. Detectives and Animal Control Technicians developed evidence indicating the property was being used for an organized cockfighting operation. Following the execution of a search warrant, investigators located roosters confined in cages or tethered throughout the property.

Detectives also seized equipment commonly associated with cockfighting. Among the items recovered were "sparring muffs," devices placed over a rooster's naturally occurring spurs to allow birds to spar without causing serious injury during training. Investigators also found a "slasher," a bladed weapon designed to be attached to a rooster's leg and used during organized cockfights.

The case remains under investigation and is currently under review by a Deschutes County Grand Jury, so names of the suspects are not being released at this time. The initial charge for cockfighting is a Class C Felony and carries a maximum penalty of 5 years in prison, a $125,000 fine, or both. Additional charges may be filed as the investigation continues and evidence is reviewed.

The Deschutes County Sheriff's Office remains committed to investigating animal cruelty and appreciates community members who reported concerns that contributed to this investigation. The Deschutes County District Attorney's Office also recognized the efforts of detectives and Animal Control personnel for their extensive work throughout the investigation and execution of the search warrant.

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Volunteers With Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Search & Rescue Endure Overnight Mission Last Weekend To Rescue Man From Broken Top (Photo) - 10/28/26

Bend, Ore. -- On October 23, 2026, at approximately 3:15 p.m., Deschutes County 911 received a report of a 34-year-old Bend man who was stranded on the east-facing ridge above the crater of Broken Top. Although he was familiar with the area and had climbed it before, current conditions were significantly different. The lack of snow and the unstable, crumbly rock posed hazards he was not equipped to navigate, and he lacked proper climbing gear for the terrain.

Deschutes County Search and Rescue responded to assist. Because of the technical and hazardous nature of the location, four experienced Mountain Rescue Unit (MRU) members were assigned to the mission. The Army National Guard was also asked to assist with a helicopter hoist. Due to the high altitude and limited daylight, the National Guard was unable to conduct a hoist that evening but advised they would be available at first light the following day. With temperatures near freezing and rising concern for hypothermia, it was determined that immediate ground assistance was necessary.

At 6:20 p.m., two Mountain Rescue Unit members were flown by AirLink to a landing zone on the northwest ridge of Broken Top. Two additional team members were flown to the same location at 7:04 p.m. The four rescuers operated as two climbing teams, eventually joining on a single route. Extremely loose rock, steep terrain, cliff exposure, cold temperatures, and darkness made progress slow and hazardous.

At 2:13 a.m., on October 24, rescuers reached the stranded man and secured him with appropriate climbing equipment. The team then began the climb back toward the summit using the same route they had established. At 6:30 a.m., the team arrived at the summit with the man.

At 9:06 a.m., the Army National Guard reached the summit and hoisted the man and two rescuers to the West Village parking lot at Mt. Bachelor, where Bend Fire and Rescue stood by to provide medical care. At 10:02 a.m., the remaining two rescuers were hoisted from the summit and transported to the same location. No medical treatment was required for anyone involved.

The Deschutes County Sheriff's Office extends sincere gratitude to Search & Rescue volunteers, the State SAR Coordinator with the Department of Emergency Management, AirLink, and the Army National Guard for their coordinated assistance with this rescue.

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The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Announces Expansion Of School Resource Deputy Program (Photo) - 10/26/26

Bend, Ore. -- The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office is expanding its School Resource Deputy (SRD) program as part of Sheriff Ty Rupert’s operational plan and ongoing discussions with Command Staff and community partners. The position was posted last Thursday, October 22nd. Out of respect for affected families who held memorial services Friday and Saturday, Sheriff Ty Rupert delayed making a public announcement until today.

In response to the recent tragedy at Silver Rail Elementary School, Sheriff Rupert has authorized an additional SRD position dedicated to serving county schools. This expansion underscores the Sheriff’s Office’s commitment to maintaining a strong, coordinated law-enforcement presence in local schools and supporting partner districts during critical incidents.

“Our schools must remain safe places for students to learn and grow. Expanding our School Resource Deputy program strengthens our partnership with local districts and reinforces our commitment to protecting children, staff, and families throughout Deschutes County,” said Deschutes County Sheriff Ty Rupert.

An experienced deputy who previously served as an SRD has been temporarily assigned to provide interim school coverage until a new deputy is hired.

The SRD position is now posted internally, and the deputy selected will be assigned to an area that best fits the needs of the team and our schools. Adding an additional SRD enhances the Sheriff’s Office’s ability to prevent, prepare for, and respond to threats in local schools while providing a visible and trusted law‑enforcement presence for students, staff, and families.

“I want to acknowledge the fears and expectations of families who are asking for full-time SRDs in every school, and today’s action is one step forward,” said Sheriff Rupert. “Protecting our entire county is critical, and our schools have become an even higher priority following this tragedy. I’ll continue partnering with Bend‑La Pine Schools and our community to build on our SRD program that helps better protect our children.”

The Sheriff’s Office currently has three full‑time SRDs serving schools in Sisters, La Pine, Terrebonne, Tumalo, Bend's Buckingham Elementary, Realms Middle School, and Sunriver's Three Rivers School. Adding this new position will bring the team to four deputies, and the Sheriff’s Office will continue working on future plans to further expand the SRD program. 

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The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Arrests Same Driver Twice For DUII Over The Weekend - 10/26/26

Bend, Ore. – At 6:20pm on Saturday, October 24, a Deschutes County Sheriff’s deputy observed a minivan, driven by 34-year-old Danielle Cox of Michigan, cross the double‑yellow line and drive onto the shoulder several times on Deschutes Market Road near Pioneer Loop Drive. The deputy made contact with Cox and developed probable cause to arrest her for DUII and Reckless Driving.

A search warrant was obtained for a blood draw that showed Cox’s Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) was over the legal limit. Cox was arrested and lodged at the Deschutes County Adult Jail. She met the criteria for Responsible Party release and was released to an acquaintance at 10:30pm. The deputy also discovered a dog in the vehicle, so it was transported to the Humane Society of Central Oregon.

At 11:47 p.m., Deschutes County 911 received several calls from Cox, who wanted to retrieve her dog from HCSO. The same deputy arrived at HCSO to facilitate the return of Cox’s dog. Several minutes later, Cox arrived in the parking lot driving the same minivan from the earlier traffic stop. The Deputy again determined that Cox was still impaired.

Shortly after 1:00 a.m., on Sunday, October 25, Cox was arrested a second time in under eight hours for DUII and lodged at the Deschutes County Adult Jail. Because she was arrested on a second charge of DUII within 12 months of her last DUII, Cox no longer met the criteria for release and will remain in custody pending her court arraignment.

This arrest comes during a focused DUII enforcement by both the Bend Police Department and the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office. From October 20–27, the agencies have been conducting a dedicated DUII mission in honor of Bend native and La Mesa (Calif.) Police Officer Lauren Craven. Officer Craven, a Summit High School graduate, was killed in the line of duty on October 20, 2025, when she was struck by an impaired driver while assisting at a crash scene.

This week’s enforcement effort is intended to honor Officer Craven’s service and sacrifice by focusing on removing intoxicated drivers from local roadways.

Both agencies remind the public not to drive if you’re impaired. Whether you use a rideshare, taxi, public transit, or call a friend, making a plan before you drink or use intoxicants is the simplest way to keep yourself and others safe.

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The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Sees Increase In Concealed Handgun License Interest Following Silver Rail Elementary School Shooting - 10/22/26

Deschutes County, Ore. – The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office has seen an increase in the number of residents seeking to apply for a Concealed Handgun License (CHL) following last week’s tragic shooting at Silver Rail Elementary School. Since the incident, 204 individuals have signed up to begin the process of obtaining a CHL.  

“Often after major incidents that impact our community, we see more interest in concealed handgun licenses,” said Deschutes County Sheriff Ty Rupert. “This trend is consistent with what we have observed historically, and we understand why many residents are thinking more about personal and family safety right now.”

In response to the heightened community interest, DCSO has scheduled an additional Concealed Handgun License training class on Saturday, November 14^th. There are 45 spots available in the class, and nine citizens have already signed up. Additional classes will be made available based on demand.

CHL Training Information

• Saturday, November 14, 2026, 7am – 12pm
• Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, 63333 Hwy 20, Bend, Oregon
• Cost: $150 (includes training and application fees)
• Sign up for the class using this link: CHL Saturday Class

As a reminder, Oregon law requires individuals seeking a CHL to complete an approved handgun safety course, submit an application through the Sheriff’s Office, pass a background check, and attend an in‑person appointment. Applicants must be at least 21 years old, reside in Deschutes County, be a U.S. citizen, and meet all eligibility requirements regarding criminal history and mental health prohibitions.

Sheriff Rupert emphasizes that firearm ownership carries significant responsibilities beyond the application process.

“Individuals have lawful rights related to firearm ownership, and those rights carry important responsibilities. Anyone considering purchasing a firearm, who has recently purchased one, or who is applying for a Concealed Handgun License should take time to make an informed decision, complete appropriate safety training, understand applicable laws, and plan for secure storage and responsible handling of any firearm,” explained Sheriff Rupert.

For more information on obtaining a CHL, visit the Sheriff’s Office website: Concealed Handgun License Info - Deschutes County Sheriff

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Message To The Community From Deschutes County Sheriff Ty Rupert - 10/20/26

To our community,

In the days since the Silver Rail Elementary tragedy, we have all been carrying grief that is difficult to put into words. Like so many of you, I have felt the heartbreak, the shock, and the deep sadness of knowing that lives were taken far too soon.

To the families who lost someone they love, there are no words that can ease the pain you are living with. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers, and that our entire community stands beside you. To the students, staff, first responders, and all those whose lives have been changed by this event, you are not alone.

May we never forget the loved ones we lost or the families who now carry unimaginable grief. May their memory inspire us to hold our loved ones closer, show kindness to those around us, and lift one another up in the days and years ahead.

Healing will not happen all at once. There is no right way to grieve, and no timeline for moving forward. I encourage each of us to check on one another, especially our children, educators, neighbors, first responders, and anyone who may be hurting quietly. Ask how they are doing, listen, offer support, because sometimes simply being present can mean more than we realize.

This tragedy has left a lasting ache in the heart of our community. Yet even in this sorrow, we have seen neighbors care for neighbors, strangers offer comfort, and people come together with extraordinary compassion. We will carry this grief together, hold one another close, and draw strength from one another in the difficult days and years ahead. 

Sheriff Ty Rupert

DCSO-La Pine Community Action Team Advances Community-Driven Priorities Through Strong Local Partnership - 10/15/26

JOINT MEDIA RELEASE 

Deschutes County Sheriff's office & City of La Pine

La Pine, Ore. -- With the close of the 2026 fire season, the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office and the City of La Pine have released eight months of performance data from the DCSO-La Pine Community Action Team (CAT) contract. The partnership, built around priorities identified by La Pine leaders, focuses on wildfire prevention, neighborhood safety, business support, management of transient camps, and public safety at major community events.

From the outset, the City and Sheriff’s Office agreed that accountability would be central to the model. Deputies assigned to the contract have tracked their activities since January, giving both agencies clear insight into how services are delivered and the benefits provided to the community.

January 1 through August 31, 2026, results include:

• 482 speed-enforcement traffic stops on Highway 97 and city roads within La Pine (231 highway stops and 251 city stops)
• 234 public land and fire safety checks, totaling an estimated 373 hours
• 154 neighborhood patrols, totaling an estimated 101 hours
• 67 business safety advisements, totaling an estimated 58 hours
• 455 total hours dedicated to La Pine’s city and community public event priorities
• School bus marshaling during neighborhood pickup and drop-off
• Increased law enforcement visibility in and around school grounds, along with the establishment of an emergency response plan for La Pine schools to ensure a quicker and more effective police response during a crisis
• An improved and streamlined process for human and animal emergency evacuations for South Deschutes County residents

La Pine completed the 2026 fire season without a wildfire threatening residents, an outcome that city leaders and DCSO attribute to consistent public land monitoring and targeted prevention checks. Deschutes County Sheriff Ty Rupert emphasized that the CAT was specifically built around community input.

“We built this contract around the specific needs and public safety concerns that La Pine faces. Every number in this report represents the time deputies spent on the community’s biggest priorities, whether that is checking public lands for fire risk, supporting businesses, or being present on streets and in neighborhoods,” said Deschutes County Sheriff Ty Rupert.

La Pine Mayor Jeannine Earls said the partnership reflects lessons learned from recent wildfire seasons and La Pine’s elevated risk profile.

“After seeing how destructive recent fire seasons have been statewide, we knew we needed a more focused approach to prevention,” explained La Pine Mayor Jeanine Earls. “By working closely with DCSO and prioritizing boots-on-the-ground checks, we put ourselves in a stronger position this year. I believe that approach played a key role in helping our community avoid another major wildfire threat in 2026.”

The CAT team is made up of Sergeant Kyle Kalmbach and Deputy Jonathan Ebner—both longtime La Pine residents. They also manage safety planning for major local events, including the Rhubarb Festival, Frontier Days, the High Lakes Car Show, and the La Pine Rodeo. With Highway 97 running directly through town, deputies provide traffic management, pedestrian safety support, and event logistics that the city lacks the staffing or regulatory capacity to handle on its own.

As La Pine has grown, so have concerns about speeding and unsafe driving. Mayor Earls said the targeted enforcement effort is already making a difference, as evidenced by feedback from local businesses and citizens. The mayor also highlighted improvements in the management of transient camps on nearby public lands.

“This is one of the most complex issues we face as a community. Many of those residing in these camps are transient, but we also have long-term residents who need to be valued, feel safe, and be healthy. The increased engagement from deputies has helped create stronger relationships, better communication, and improved conditions that have led to cleaner, safer spaces and more accountability,” said Mayor Earls.

City Manager Geoff Wullschlager added that the partnership has required flexible, collaborative approaches to complex issues affecting south Deschutes County.

“We are inspired by our work with the Sheriff’s Office as we collectively address these issues in ways that are as unconventional as the problems themselves. Regardless of jurisdictional ownership, DCSO and the La Pine have pivoted in a collaborative effort to maintain public health and safety standards in south Deschutes County,” noted La Pine City Manager Geoff Wullschlager.

Sheriff Rupert and Mayor Earls emphasized that the Community Action Team is designed to benefit the greater La Pine area and to continue evolving based on the community's public safety needs.

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The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Emergency Management Team Recognized With Statewide Award For Innovation And Collaboration (Photo) - 10/14/26

Bend, Oregon — The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Emergency Management Team was honored recently at the annual Oregon Emergency Management Association conference for its leadership in developing innovative and collaborative programs that strengthen emergency support for residents with access and functional needs.

Emergency Management staff members Ben Duda and Ashley Volz accepted the Oregon Emergency Management Association Innovation, Collaboration and Service Award on behalf of the Emergency Management Unit and its partner agencies. The award recognizes outstanding contributions to emergency management and to Oregon communities, especially those that have been underrepresented or underserved.

“Our Emergency Management team of Ben Duda, Ashley Volz, and Rachelle Brookins works tirelessly whenever an emergency requires public notification and support. Their efforts are often unseen, but they are committed year-round to ensuring timely information and assistance during challenging situations. I am very proud of their professionalism and dedication,” explained Special Services Lt. Nathan Garibay.

In partnership with County Health Services, Information Technology and Geographic Information Systems, 911, Oregon Department of Human Services Office of Resilience and Emergency Management, Oregon Health Authority, Oregon State Fire Marshal, and other local and state agencies, the Emergency Management Team created an innovative program designed to better identify, notify, and support community members with access and functional needs during emergencies.

The program has been proven effective during recent wildfire evacuations and can be adapted for severe weather and other disaster situations. It brings together public outreach, voluntary alert system registration, annual data verification, real-time mapping, a virtual call center, and coordinated welfare checks for residents who need additional assistance. This comprehensive approach ensures that vulnerable residents are contacted quickly and consistently during emergencies.

“This initiative is truly an all-hands effort,” said Deschutes County Sheriff Ty Rupert. “By working closely with our partners, we are helping ensure that every community member, especially those who may face additional barriers during disasters, receives timely information and support. We are also committed to sharing this model with other jurisdictions to improve inclusive emergency preparedness throughout Oregon.”

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