New drug-detection dog expected to bolster public safety, strengthen cases, and support regional law enforcement - City of North Bend release - The North Bend Police Department has introduced K-9 Athena, a Dutch Shepherd trained in narcotics detection, who will serve alongside her handler, Officer Ben Martin. The addition marks the return of the department’s K-9 program, which has been inactive since 2017.  “Athena is a Dutch Shepherd a little over halfway through her training and certification process and doing very well with Officer Martin,” said Chief of Police Cal Mitts. “We are sincerely grateful for the major donors and broad community support that made this possible. The investment our residents and businesses have made in this program means a great deal to the department.”  Officer Martin said Athena is certified to detect four narcotics odors—cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, and fentanyl. “We’re scheduled to take the MAKOR K-9 certification on Thursday and begin working immediately afterward,” he said. “In two weeks, we’ll attend the Oregon Police Canine Association fall seminar in Lincoln City for state certification, and we plan to maintain International Police Canine Association credentials throughout her career.”  What a drug-detection K-9 brings to North Bend—and the region:  A trained narcotics K-9 like Athena offers several public-safety benefits for North Bend and neighboring agencies:  Faster, safer interdictions: Canine sniffs can quickly identify the presence of illegal narcotics in vehicles, parcels, and buildings—reducing time on scene and improving officer safety.  Fentanyl response: With fentanyl among Athena’s trained odors, the team can help intercept a potent synthetic opioid linked to overdoses throughout Oregon.  Case strength and efficiency: Accurate, documented canine indications—when used in accordance with policy and law—can aid probable cause determinations, support search warrants, and strengthen prosecutions.  Mutual aid and regional coverage: The K-9 team can assist surrounding law enforcement partners on targeted operations, traffic safety missions, and investigations, expanding impact beyond city limits.  Community engagement: Demonstrations at schools and civic events build trust, educate the public about substance abuse risks, and highlight the department’s focus on prevention as well as enforcement.  Chief Mitts added that donor appreciation events and community meet-and-greets with Athena are being planned. “It’s amazing to see the support and investment from our community,” he said. “We look forward to introducing Athena to more of our residents in the coming weeks.”  Fundraising and how to help:  The department continues to raise funds for training, veterinary care, and the dedicated patrol vehicle that will support the K-9 unit.  How to contribute (tax-deductible):  Checks payable to: City of North Bend (Memo: NBPD K-9 Program); Drop-off: North Bend Police Department or City Hall; Arrange pickup: Call (541) 756-3161 to coordinate with Officer Martin; Mail: P.O. Box B, North Bend, OR 97459; Online: northbendoregon.us/k9donation; Donations of $100 or more will receive an official tax receipt.  Upcoming benefit: Officer Martin noted that the Ko-Kwel Casino Resort - Coos Bay will host a K-9 Program fundraiser on Saturday, Nov. 8, featuring the Rebel Canyon band, with proceeds from ticket sales benefiting the program. Doors open at 6 pm for the 7 pm concert.  “We’re proud to welcome Athena to the NBPD family,” Chief Mitts said. “With the community’s continued support, she’ll make a meaningful difference in keeping North Bend and our neighboring communities safe.”