City of North Bend release - Department says year-to-date contributions are sustaining the revived K-9 program and expanding regional drug interdiction capacity.  NORTH BEND, Oregon — Community support for the North Bend Police Department’s K-9 Drug Program has reached $60,857 year-to-date, consisting of $54,071 in cash donations and $6,786 in in-kind contributions, according to Police Chief Cal Mitts.  The fundraising milestone comes as K-9 Athena, a Dutch Shepherd assigned to narcotics detection with handler Officer Ben Martin, continues a busy schedule of patrol activity, multi-agency support, and civic engagement. The NBPD K-9 program had been inactive since 2017 and was restored this year through private donations and community partnerships.  “The investment our residents and businesses have made in this program means a great deal to the department,” Chief Mitts said. “We are sincerely grateful for the major donors and the broad community support that made it possible to bring the K-9 program back and put Athena to work.”  K-9 program revival and certifications:  NBPD formally introduced Athena in September as part of its narcotics detection team. Chief Mitts said at the time that Athena was progressing well through training and certification and that donor participation was central to the program’s relaunch.  Officer Martin reported that Athena is trained to detect four controlled substance odors: cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, and fentanyl. The department has pursued multiple certifications for Athena’s ongoing qualification and proficiency, including state-level standards through the Oregon Police Canine Association, and continuing credentials through national organizations.  “A trained narcotics K-9 adds speed and safety to interdiction efforts,” Chief Mitts said. “It allows officers to quickly determine the likely presence of illegal narcotics in vehicles, parcels, and buildings, and it strengthens cases when used in accordance with policy and law.”  Recent enforcement highlights: The department cited several recent cases where Athena’s deployment helped officers locate suspected narcotics and evidence consistent with trafficking.  Dec. 18: During an NBPD traffic stop, Athena assisted officers in locating 3.2 grams of fentanyl and 4.4 grams of methamphetamine, along with scales, packaging materials and other drug-related items. Police said the suspect was also arrested on two additional counts of being a felon in possession of a restricted weapon.  Dec. 16: In another deployment, Athena helped locate 7.6 grams of methamphetamine, $190 in cash, and drug paraphernalia including packaging materials and scales, police said.  Nov. 27: Athena assisted the Coos County Sheriff’s Office, resulting in the seizure of approximately two ounces of methamphetamine and helping advance a broader investigation, according to the department.  Oct. 30: NBPD reported a case involving arrests for driving while suspended and alleged controlled substance possession, along with additional weapon-related charges, following work by Officer Martin and Athena.  Oct. 7: The department said Athena assisted the Oregon State Police during a traffic stop that led to the recovery of approximately 12 grams of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.  Chief Mitts emphasized that these incidents reflect both proactive enforcement and coordination with regional partners, including multi-agency narcotics teams and statewide patrol resources.   “This work is about teamwork, training, and consistent enforcement,” Chief Mitts said. “Athena and Officer Martin are a force multiplier for our officers and our partner agencies, and the results show why this program matters.”  Community engagement and donor support:  Beyond enforcement, NBPD said Athena’s role includes community demonstrations and public education about substance abuse and prevention. In October, the department hosted a donor meet-and-greet attended by Chief Mitts, Captain Ed Perry, Officer Martin and Mayor Jessica Engelke, with support from community partners including the Ko-Kwel Casino Resort.  “This milestone wouldn’t be possible without the support from donors, businesses, and community members,” Chief Mitts said. “Every contribution—cash or in-kind—helps ensure Athena has the equipment, training, and resources needed to keep working for North Bend.”  NBPD plans to continue donor appreciation and community outreach opportunities as the program matures and as Athena and Officer Martin maintain ongoing certifications and training requirements.