Sheriff Tim Pounds and the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office have noticed a significant increase in the number of missing persons, especially amongst the elderly with Alzheimer’s Disease/Dementia and children (especially with autism). Since Sheriff Pounds took office in January, 2017, there have been 475 missing/runaway persons. Out of those approximately 37 were disabled children and adults. Only five of those cases remain open which are all runaway juveniles where no foul play is suspected.

Some of these were large scale searches that involved multi-jurisdictional responses and resources. In some of these cases a well trained bloodhound could have expedited the efforts in locating these individuals.

“Copper,” a blood hound graciously donated by two local breeders, Cody Sparks and Rebecca Myers will be trained in tracking children and Alzheimer’s/dementia patients in the efforts to assist with locating missing persons. Donated at 13 weeks old, Copper will also be trained in public relations and used in S.C.O.P.E. (Sheriff’s Community Outreach Program & Education) activities.

DCSO’s K-9 Unit provides teams of highly trained canines and handlers for the purpose of protecting citizens and enhancing the safety of fellow law enforcement officers. The Sheriff’s K-9 Unit aspires to relate, in a positive manner, with the general public, maintain a professional image, and to constantly strive to increase the efficiency and productivity of the Unit through continuous training.

Sheriff Pounds is dedicated to serving and protecting our community as he has done for the people of Douglas County for more than 40 years.