The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Alerts Public To Fake Calls Where Scammers Pose As Deputies (Photo) - 04/14/26

Bend, Ore. -- The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office is alerting the community about an active phone scam in which callers impersonate deputies with the Sheriff’s Office and attempt to convince victims to pay bogus fines.

Over the past several days, deputies have responded to multiple reports of residents receiving fraudulent calls from individuals claiming to be with the Sheriff’s Office. The callers use phone number spoofing to make the call appear legitimate. They then falsely claim that the recipient has missed a court date or faces criminal charges, and demand payment to freeze or delay legal action.

These scammers even use the names of real Sheriff’s Office employees, but they often get key details wrong, including referring to Sheriff Ty Rupert as ‘Lieutenant Rupert’. We want the community to know that no deputy will ever call to ask for payment, request your financial information, or threaten arrest if you don’t pay.

Community members who receive suspicious calls are encouraged to:

• Verify the legitimacy of any law enforcement contact by calling non-emergency dispatch at (541) 693-6911.
• Report the scam attempt to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at IC3.gov.
• Share this information with friends, family, and vulnerable community members who may be targeted.

No victims have reported financial losses at this time, but this type of scam is designed to pressure individuals into making quick payments, and even a single incident can cause significant harm.

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The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Offering Free Voluntary Boat Safety Inspections Saturday, April 18 (Photo) - 04/09/26

Bend, Ore. -- On Saturday, April 18, 2026, the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO) will provide free, voluntary boat safety inspections. DCSO Marine Deputies will be on-site at two locations from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. to conduct inspections, answer questions, and help boat operators prepare for a safe boating season.

These no‑penalty inspections ensure that boats and watercraft meet state and federal safety requirements, giving operators added peace of mind before heading out on Oregon’s waterways. Vessels that pass the inspection will receive an official inspection sticker. If a vessel does not meet requirements, deputies will provide guidance to help operators bring their boats into compliance. No citations will be issued during these events.

Deschutes County Sheriff Ty Rupert emphasizes the importance of safety before boaters enjoy local rivers and lakes.

“These inspections give boaters an opportunity to ensure their equipment meets safety standards before launching. While enforcement is part of our daily work, we also want to help citizens be in compliance before they hit the water this spring and summer. This free event is a great opportunity,” said Sheriff Ty Rupert.

Inspection Locations

• Sheriff’s Office Main Office Parking Lot – 63333 W Hwy 20, Bend, OR 97703
• La Pine County Services Center – 51340 Hwy 97, La Pine, OR 97739

Boaters can learn more about voluntary vessel safety checks by visiting the Sheriff’s Office website: Marine - Deschutes County Sheriff's Office Oregon

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Bend Man Arrested For The Second Time In A Month After Threatening Deputies And Fleeing On A Motorcycle In Deschutes River Woods - 03/31/26

Bend, Ore. -- For the second time in the past month, deputies with the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office arrested 40‑year‑old Paul Akehurst of Bend after he threatened a deputy and fled on a motorcycle in Deschutes River Woods.

Akehurst was in Deschutes County Circuit Court earlier today and then contacted a deputy in Deschutes River Woods (DRW) at 1:32 p.m. Akehurst made threatening statements and gestures to the deputy, yelled at him, and then took off on a motorcycle. The deputy tried to stop him, but Akehurst sped away.

Deputies followed him to the area of Cherokee and Navajo Roads in DRW. That kicked off a large law‑enforcement response, including a search along the nearby railroad tracks. For safety, BNSF Railway temporarily stopped train traffic in the area while deputies looked for Akehurst.

After nearly an hour of searching, deputies found Akehurst at 2:34 p.m. and took him into custody without further incident.

Today’s arrest comes just one month after Akehurst was taken into custody by the DCSO SWAT Team in the Sunriver area on February 25. In that case, Akehurst was wanted on multiple felony warrants, including aggravated identity theft, eluding, reckless driving, reckless endangering, and driving while suspended or revoked.

Akehurst was arrested and lodged in the Deschutes County Adult Jail and faces new charges of eluding and reckless endangering. 

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Black Hawk Helicopter And 22 Search & Rescue Volunteers Respond To Injured Snowboarder Near Tam McArthur Rim (Photo) - 03/31/26

Bend, Ore. — A coordinated rescue involving an Oregon Army National Guard HH-60 Black Hawk helicopter and 22 Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue volunteers brought an injured snowboarder to safety on Monday, March 30. The call for help came in at 2:40 p.m., after a 44-year-old woman from Bend was injured in the Tam McArthur Rim area at the base of Broken Top Mountain. She was found on steep, snow-covered terrain in the upper third of the slope at approximately 7,350 feet in elevation.

The nature of the injuries and the terrain required an immediate and technical response. A three-person team of Advanced Life Support SAR and Mountain Rescue Unit (MRU) members was taken to the area by Air Link, but weather conditions prevented them from reaching the scene. They were dropped off as close as possible at the Lower Three Creeks Snow Park, where a Good Samaritan got them closer. The team then skied approximately two miles uphill to reach the snowboarder.

Additional SAR resources, snowmobile operators, skiers, and medical team members also responded. A break in the weather allowed the Oregon Army National Guard HH-60 Black Hawk, with a paramedic on board, to reach the location at 8:20 p.m. The woman was stabilized and flown to St. Charles-Bend for further care.

This rescue was possible thanks to the work of 22 highly trained SAR volunteers and a DCSO deputy. They were assisted by the Oregon State SAR Coordinator from the Oregon Department of Emergency Management, Air Link, the Oregon Army National Guard based at McNary Field in Salem, Oregon, and Three Sisters Backcountry Yurts. 

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Class Prepares Volunteers To Mentor Children With Incarcerated Parents (Photo) - 03/31/26

Central Oregon Partnerships for Youth (COPY), a program of the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, is offering a class to prepare volunteers to become mentors for children with an incarcerated parent.

After initial training and background checks, volunteers are matched with a child that shares similar interests and commits to spending a few hours a week together for a minimum of one year. This time is often spent on outside activities, exploring the community, doing art or craft projects, or simply hanging out and talking.

On Saturday, April 11, COPY will offer an orientation/training class. This 3½ -hour class covers program policies, how to establish a mentor relationship, the impact incarceration has on families, and communication skills. There is no cost to attend, but advanced registration is required.

For additional details please call 541-388-6651 or email COPY@deschutes.org Additional program information is available at the Sheriff’s Office web site at www.sheriff.deschutes.org/copy

Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Search And Rescue Volunteers Respond To Weekend Mountain Bike Crash West Of Bend (Photo) - 03/30/26

Bend, Ore. — Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue (SAR) volunteers responded to a reported mountain bike crash on a trail west of the City of Bend on Saturday, March 28, at 5:00 p.m.

SAR volunteers arrived quickly, hiked in to reach the patient, and provided first aid to a 46‑year‑old Bend woman who crashed while riding with a partner. The incident happened on the C.O.D. Trail off Century Drive. It contains some of the more technical mountain biking trails within the Phil’s Trail Area. The woman was assisted back to her vehicle and was privately transported to the hospital for further evaluation. She was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash, and her riding partner was able to call for help.

This incident serves as another reminder of the many hours SAR volunteers dedicate to our community and how quickly they respond when someone needs help.

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Deputies Make Arrest In La Pine Vehicle Theft Case Thanks To Driveway Cameras And Dozens Of Tips From Neighbors (Photo) - 03/27/26

La Pine, Ore. -- The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office has identified and arrested the suspect responsible for yesterday’s series of vehicle break‑ins in La Pine. Between doorbell cameras, driveway cameras, and dozens of tips from the community, the suspect was identified as 27‑year‑old Noah Kirshner of La Pine.

Deputies reviewed hours of video from homeowners' cameras that captured Kirshner stealing items from cars in the Reserve in the Pines and Crescent Creek neighborhoods. Stolen items included purses, wallets, medications, and an iPad. Deputies say that most of the items have been recovered, and the property returned to the owners.

Kirshner was arrested and lodged in the Deschutes County Adult Jail on the following charges:

• Attempted Unlawful Entry into a Motor Vehicle (7 counts)
• Unlawful Entry into a Motor Vehicle (5 counts)
• Theft in the Second Degree (2 counts)
• Theft in the First Degree (1 count)

As deputies continue to sort through the large volume of video evidence and identify additional victims, Kirshner could face additional charges.

The Sheriff’s Office wants to thank all the neighbors who took the time to review their camera footage and share what they found with us. This case is a good reminder that when nearly every driveway has a camera pointed somewhere, it becomes very difficult for criminal activity to go unnoticed.

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The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Launches Investigation Into Overnight Vehicle Thefts In La Pine Neighborhood (Photo) - 03/26/26

La Pine, Ore. -- The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a series of vehicle entries and thefts that occurred overnight in the Reserve in the Pines subdivision in La Pine. Between  9:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 25, and 1:00 a.m. on Thursday, March 26, an unknown male suspect entered numerous unlocked vehicles throughout the neighborhood.

Deputies have identified approximately 30 attempted entries and at least five confirmed theft victims. No damage to vehicles has been reported. Stolen items vary, and the investigation is ongoing as additional calls continue to come in.

Based on neighborhood cameras, the suspect appears to be wearing a light-colored or patterned jacket, a light-colored hoodie with the hood up, blue jeans, and a bright green face covering or mask.

Residents in the area are asked to check their home surveillance systems, like Ring Doorbell, and report any suspicious activity, video footage, or information from the time frame listed above. Anyone with information that may assist deputies is encouraged to contact the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office non-emergency line at (541) 693-6911.

The Sheriff’s Office would also like to remind community members to remove valuables from vehicles and ensure vehicles are locked, even when parked at home.

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Redmond Man Arrested And Indicted On Child Sex Abuse Charges Following Investigation By The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office - 03/26/26

Redmond, Ore. -- In December 2025, the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Internet Crimes Against Children Unit received multiple CyberTipline reports from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children involving two Twitter/X accounts sharing illegal child exploitation material. Detectives also identified a related CyberTip from Snapchat tied to the same individual.

Following subpoenas and search warrants, the suspect was identified as Gelsyn Yahir Hernandez, 23, of Redmond.

On March 4, 2026, detectives executed search warrants at Hernandez’s residence and vehicle with assistance from DCSO Criminal Detectives, the Street Crimes Unit, the Redmond Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and digital forensics teams from both agencies. Multiple digital devices were seized.

Forensic analysis over the following weeks confirmed media consistent with the CyberTipline reports, as well as additional evidence involving the abuse of animals. Hernandez was arrested on March 20, 2026, and indicted by a Deschutes County grand jury on March 24, 2026, on the following charges:

• 10 counts of Encouraging Child Sex Abuse in the First Degree (Felony)
• 10 counts of Encouraging Child Sex Abuse in the Second Degree (Felony)
• 1 count of Encouraging Sexual Assault of an Animal (Misdemeanor)

During the investigation, detectives learned Hernandez was employed by the High Desert Education Service District (HDESD), which has fully cooperated with the Sheriff’s Office. There is no information indicating that any children in Central Oregon or at HDESD were victimized. Hernandez is no longer employed by HDESD, and he did not work directly with children.

The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office thanks the Redmond Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation for their assistance throughout this case.

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Two Climbers Rescued Overnight After Becoming Stuck On A Ledge At Smith Rock State Park - 03/24/26

Smith Rock State Park, Ore. -- Two climbers stranded on a narrow ledge nearly 400 feet above the ground were safely rescued at Smith Rock State Park after a complex nighttime operation conducted by Deschutes County Search & Rescue (SAR) volunteers.

At 8:00 p.m., Monday, March 23, SAR was activated after two male climbers in their late 20s became stuck during a descent on the west side of Smith Rock State Park in an area known to climbers as “Wherever I May Roam.” The pair, visiting from Eugene and Salem, began their climb around 12:00 p.m., pausing at times to let other climbers pass by.

During their rappel, the climbers’ ropes became stuck in rocks, preventing them from continuing downward. Due to the highly technical nature of the situation, SAR deployed several of its most experienced volunteer climbers. The rescue required navigating steep, exposed terrain entirely at night, with cold conditions adding to the complexity.

Rescuers reached the stranded climbers, secured them on ropes, and lowered them safely to the base of the route. Neither climber was injured, though both were cold and not adequately prepared for nighttime temperatures. They were brought to the ground at 1:00 a.m. on Tuesday, March 24.

This incident highlights the skill and dedication of the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office Search & Rescue volunteers, whose advanced climbing abilities and willingness to operate in hazardous conditions made this safe outcome possible. 

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Search & Rescue Volunteers Assist 67-Year-Old Hiker In Medical Emergency On Misery Ridge (Photo) - 03/20/26

Smith Rock State Park, Ore. -- On Thursday, March 19, just after 12:00 p.m., deputies with the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office and Search & Rescue (SAR) volunteers responded to Smith Rock State Park to assist Redmond Fire & Rescue and State Park Rangers with a medical incident on the Misery Ridge Trail.

The patient, a 67‑year‑old male visiting family in the area from California, experienced a medical emergency while hiking. Redmond Fire personnel provided on‑scene medical care, and SAR Volunteers transported the patient down the trail using a wheeled litter. The man was transferred to a waiting ground ambulance for further evaluation and transport.

The Sheriff’s Office is grateful for the strong partnerships we have with Redmond Fire & Rescue, Oregon State Parks, and the many skilled volunteers in our Search & Rescue program. Central Oregon is fortunate to have well-trained and dedicated resources available to assist community members and visitors during emergencies in our outdoor recreation areas.

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The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Issues Safety Warning After Several Drivers Cited For Exceeding 100 MPH On Highway 97 (Photo) - 03/20/26

Deschutes County, Ore. — The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office is urging drivers to slow down after three recent incidents involving extremely high speeds—one of which included a driver traveling more than 115 miles per hour and arrested for DUII.

One deputy stopped two drivers on Thursday, March 19, for speeds of 102 and 109 mph on Highway 97 south of Bend. Another deputy observed a black passenger car weaving through northbound traffic near milepost 128 between Bend and Redmond last Saturday, March 14, at 6:15 p.m. Radar initially locked the vehicle at 115 miles per hour, with readings climbing into the 120s.

The 23‑year‑old Redmond man was arrested for DUII and reckless driving, and cited for speeding, driving without a license, and driving without insurance. His vehicle was impounded. A breath test measured his blood‑alcohol level at 0.25%, more than three times Oregon’s legal limit.

“These speeds are extremely dangerous and traveling over 100 miles per hour leaves drivers with almost no time to react,” said Deschutes County Sheriff Ty Rupert. “We want everyone to get home safely. Slowing down, driving sober, and staying alert dramatically reduces the chances of a serious or life‑threatening crash.”

Under Oregon law (ORS 811.109), driving more than 100 miles per hour carries a base fine of $1,150 and a mandatory 30‑ to 90‑day driver’s license suspension, even when impairment is not a factor.

Deschutes County 911 dispatchers receive numerous calls every day reporting aggressive or high‑speed driving across Central Oregon. Since February 20, the Sheriff’s Office has responded to a significant number of incidents involving suspected DUII and other traffic complaints, like excessive speeding and aggressive driving. These numbers reflect only the calls handled by the Sheriff’s Office and do not include other law enforcement partners in the region.

February 20 - March 20, 2026

• 114 suspected or confirmed DUII complaints
• 288 traffic‑related complaints

The Sheriff’s Office is currently utilizing a hybrid traffic team to enforce traffic laws like reckless and distracted driving, speeding, and DUII. Citizens can expect traffic enforcement to increase as we head into spring and summer.

“The number one complaint I hear from citizens when I’m out in the community is about traffic safety,” explained Sheriff Rupert. “Our main message is simple: Please slow down and be responsible. We’d much rather see you arrive a few minutes late than not at all.”

The Sheriff’s Office reminds citizens that responsible choices start with planning ahead. Whether it’s a designated driver, a taxi, or a ride-share service, having a sober ride can save lives. And please remember that speed and alcohol are a dangerous mix. 

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UPDATE: ALL EVACUATION LEVELS DROPPED FOR RIVERVIEW FIRE IN LA PINE - 03/17/26

La Pine, Ore. – Fire crews have continued to make strong progress on the Riverview Fire in La Pine. Fire behavior has significantly moderated, and forward spread has stopped. As a result of improved conditions and ongoing suppression success, all evacuation levels have now been lifted.

The fire is currently estimated at 11.4 acres. No homes or structures have been lost or damaged. The fire remains under investigation.

At the time evacuation levels were lifted, the incident included:

• 131 structures previously in Level 3

• 232 structures previously in Level 1

The Temporary Evacuation Point at La Pine High School has been closed, and residents may return to their homes.

The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office and fire personnel remind community members to continue exercising caution and to stay clear of active fire suppression areas.
 

Thankfully, no homes or structures were lost. The fire remains under investigation. 
 

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UPDATE: Fire Crews Make Progress On Riverview Fire In La Pine; Level 3 And Level 1 Evacuation Orders Remain In Place (Photo) - 03/17/26

La Pine, Ore. -- Fire behavior has moderated on the Riverview Fire near La Pine, and the spread of the fire has slowed. There is a large number of resources on scene. The Level 3 and Level 1 Evacuation Orders will remain in place until the winds die down and concerns about further spread of the fire subside. So far, no homes or structures have been lost or damaged. The fire remains under investigation. 

The Temporary Evacuation Point has been changed from the La Pine Senior Activity Center to La Pine High School. Residents who have evacuated their homes and need a temporary place to stay are encouraged to visit La Pine High School at 51633 Coach Road.

Current Evacuation Orders as of March 17th, 2026, 3:55 p.m.:

Level 3 (GO NOW) Evacuation notice is issued for Timber Lane Loop, Riverview Drive, Bridge Drive, and homes along the Little Deschutes River. This area is located north of Burgess Road and west of Huntington Road, east of Forest Road, and south of Elk Court and Deer Run Lane. 

Level 3: Means “GO” evacuate now. Leave immediately! There is a danger in your area, and you should evacuate immediately. If you choose to ignore this advisement, you must understand that emergency services may not be available to assist you further. DO NOT delay leaving to gather belongings or to protect your home. This will be the last notice you receive.

Level 1 (Be Ready) Evacuation notice is issued for the neighborhood north of Burgess, east of Huntington Road, and west of Hwy 97. This includes Cagle Road, Railroad Street, Skidgel Road, Antler Lane, Doe Lane, Pine Drive, Pine Place, Ash Drive, Oak Drive, Elm Drive, Santa Barbara Drive, and Murry Drive. 

Level 1: Means “BE READY“ for potential evacuation. Residents should be aware of the dangers in their area and monitor emergency services websites and local media outlets for information. This is the time for preparation and precautionary movements of persons with special needs, mobile property, and (under certain circumstances) pets and livestock. If conditions worsen, emergency services personnel may contact you via an emergency notification system.

Follow the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office on Twitter and Facebook for up-to-date information.

• Current maps, including evacuation areas, can be found at: https://deschutes.org/emergency
• For fire information, you can visit the Central Oregon Fire Information site at www.centraloregonfire.org
• Make sure you are registered for Deschutes Alerts to receive evacuation and emergency alerts and warnings in your area by going to www.deschutesalerts.org

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The Deschutes County Sheriff's Office Orders Level 3 And Level 1 Evacuation Notices Due To Wildfire Near La Pine - 03/17/26

La Pine, Ore. -- Due to wildfire activity in the La Pine area, the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office has issued the following evacuation notices:

Level 3 (GO NOW) Evacuation notice is issued for Timber Lane Loop, Riverview Drive, Bridge Drive, and homes along the Little Deschutes River. This area is located north of Burgess Road and west of Huntington Road, east of Forest Road, and south of Elk Court and Deer Run Lane. 

Level 3: Means “GO” evacuate now. Leave immediately! There is a danger in your area, and you should evacuate immediately. If you choose to ignore this advisement, you must understand that emergency services may not be available to assist you further. DO NOT delay leaving to gather belongings or to protect your home. This will be the last notice you receive.

Level 1 (Be Ready) Evacuation notice is issued for the neighborhood north of Burgess, east of Huntington Road, and west of Hwy 97. This includes Cagle Road, Railroad Street, Skidgel Road, Antler Lane, Doe Lane, Pine Drive, Pine Place, Ash Drive, Oak Drive, Elm Drive, Santa Barbara Drive, and Murry Drive. 

Level 1: Means “BE READY“ for potential evacuation. Residents should be aware of the dangers in their area and monitor emergency services websites and local media outlets for information. This is the time for preparation and precautionary movements of persons with special needs, mobile property, and (under certain circumstances) pets and livestock. If conditions worsen, emergency services personnel may contact you via an emergency notification system.

The La Pine Activity Center has been established as a temporary evacuation point for people needing to evacuate. It's located at 16450 Victory Way in La Pine. 

Follow the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office on Twitter and Facebook for up-to-date information.

• Current maps, including evacuation areas, can be found at: https://deschutes.org/emergency
• For fire information, you can visit the Central Oregon Fire Information site at www.centraloregonfire.org
• Make sure you are registered for Deschutes Alerts to receive evacuation and emergency alerts and warnings in your area by going to www.deschutesalerts.org

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The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Announces 2026 Community Shred Event Schedule (Photo) - 03/17/26

Deschutes County, Ore. — The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, in partnership with Republic Services, is pleased to announce the 2026 schedule for its free Community Shred Events. These events help residents protect their personal information, safely dispose of unwanted medications, and properly retire worn American flags.

Shredding services will be offered at the Sheriff’s Main Office in four locations:

• March 21^st – 63333 W Highway 20, Sheriff’s Main Office
• June 13^th – 51340 HWY 97, La Pine, Sheriff’s Office Substation
• July 18^th – 703 N Larch, Sisters, Sheriff’s Office Substation
• September 19^th – 1199 B Ave, Terrebonne, Terrebonne Community School

All events run from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., or until the shred truck is full.

This residential-only shred service is not intended for business or commercial use. Paper clips and staples may remain attached; however, plastic bags and three-ring binders cannot be accepted. Participants are asked to bring no more than four boxes of documents per household. Those with more than four boxes should contact Republic Services at 541-352-2263 for additional disposal options.

In addition to document shredding, each event will offer safe medication disposal. Accepted items include prescriptions, patches, ointments, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, samples, and pet medications. Items not accepted include sharps, thermometers, inhalers, aerosols, or other pressurized containers.

Community members may also bring worn or tattered American flags for proper retirement. Non-perishable food donations will be accepted on-site and donated to a local food bank.

The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office encourages residents to take advantage of this opportunity to safely and securely dispose of sensitive documents, unwanted medications, and worn flags—all while supporting the local community.

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