2024 WCSO Annual Report - Report - Page 9
2024 WCSO Annual Report | 7
WELCOMING THE NEXT GENERATION
The K9 Team proudly added K9 Puddles and K9 Blake to its ranks in 2024.
K9 Puddles, a Dutch and German Shepherd mix, joined Cpl. Akin. Despite
her young age, Puddles has already demonstrated exceptional skill, earning
certification and achieving her first capture while on patrol. Her enthusiasm
and ability ensure that she will play a vital role in keeping Washington
County safe.
K9 Blake made history as the team’s first-ever jail canine, assigned to the
Washington County Jail. A highly trained European Black Lab partnered
with Corporal Boyers, Blake specializes in narcotics detection, including
methamphetamine, cocaine, heroin, and fentanyl. Certified by the Oregon
Police Canine Association, this groundbreaking addition enhances the
safety and security of Washington County’s only jail by deterring and
detecting contraband.
Meet our newest K9: Puddles
REMEMBERING OUR HEROES
LOOKING AHEAD
2024 also brought difficult farewells to two cherished
The WCSO K9 Team continues to honor its legacy of
K9s, Bolo and Stark, who passed away.
innovation, adaptability, and unwavering dedication.
K9 Bolo, a long time partner to Cpl. Zaugg. Since 2019,
Zaugg has been a dedicated Tactical Negotiations
Team (TNT) member and a two-time “Top Dog”
champion at the WCSO K9 trials. His drive and work
ethic inspired those around him, leaving an indelible
mark on the unit.
K9 Stark, an office legend, served alongside Cpl. Akin
for a decade, eight years as a dual-certified narcotics
detection dog. Known for his unrelenting dedication,
Stark was a force to be reckoned with, tracking suspects
and detecting narcotics with unmatched precision.
Beyond his professional achievements, Stark brought
joy to those around him, from his resilience through
medical challenges to his ability to sport imaginative
costumes with dignity.
Each handler and K9 works tirelessly to protect and
serve, guided by a robust training program that builds
confidence and fosters success. From the community
streets to the jail’s corridors, these remarkable teams
play an integral role in making Washington County the
safest urban county in Oregon.
As we celebrate new beginnings and reflect on the
contributions of those who have moved on, the K9
Team remains steadfast in its commitment to public
safety and excellence. This year’s milestones reaffirm
the bond between handlers and their K9 partners, built
on trust, respect, and a shared mission to serve.
