On December 30th, 2020 K9 Handler Deputy Zach Akin and K9 Ghost completed six weeks of training. During this time, they trained on Handler Protection, Tracking, Suspect Apprehension and Evidence Collection. This training also enhanced the important bond and trust between both Deputy Akin and Ghost. The team demonstrated these learned skills and became certified through the Oregon Police Canine Association Patrol Standards. The newly minted team began patrolling the streets shortly after.
On January 20, 2021 at approximately 1:00 PM Deputy Akin and K9 Ghost answered a request for assistance from the Lincoln City Police Department near the 2600 block of NW Lincoln City. When Deputy Akin arrived, he learned a male identified as Nicholas A. Ballentine age 32 of Lincoln City was seen by LCPD Officers. Mr. Ballentine had felony warrants for his arrest and fled from the Lincoln City Officers.
Deputy Akin and K9 Ghost immediately went to work tracking. K9 Ghost gave positive indicators he was hot on the trail of Mr. Ballentine. After a short time tracking, Mr. Ballentine was spotted and began to run from the team. The team announced the presence and use of K9 Ghost and Mr. Ballentine surrendered without further incident.
The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the citizens of Lincoln County for their continued support of the K9 program.
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