LINN — Three Rivers’ Helping Hands Community Foundation awarded $10,000 to Always Tracking K-9 Services to help fund the purchase and training of a K-9 unit for use by the Osage County Sheriff’s Office. Always Tracking K-9 Services is owned by Deputy Ben Sallin and his wife, Kim, of Linn. Deputy Sallin will be responsible for responding to all calls within Osage County where a K-9 could be of service. “I will be available to all schools and any businesses located within the county for drug searches when requested,” said Deputy Sallin.

He believes the K-9 is critical to slowing drug-related activities in the county. “Osage County does not currently have its own K-9 unit and relies on surrounding counties to aid us when a K-9 is needed to detect drugs and search for missing people,” said Sallin. “I can tell you from personal experience that individuals who use narcotics are extremely creative in where and how they hide their narcotics and drug paraphernalia. Adding this tool for our local law enforcement will help decrease drug use within the county, which will also help decrease theft in the county. Often, drug use and theft go hand in hand, as drug users steal items to pay for their drugs.”

Other area businesses and county residents have contributed to this effort as well, but the donation from Three Rivers will make Sallin’s goal a reality.

“The county doesn’t want to own a dog again because of issues that arose previously, but the K-9 unit will be an asset to the county. We’re proud of Ben and thankful to both Three Rivers and the community for their contributions,” said Osage County Sheriff Mike Bonham. “Ben has been with us for almost two years now, and we are happy to support his career progression and his dream of being a K-9 handler.”

Bonham added that while the department will help facilitate Sallin’s training by making sure he has time off when necessary, Sallin will be responsible for the K-9 and its service, not the sheriff’s department.   

When asked about his plans going forward, Sallin said “I’ve been lucky to have a great mentor, Captain Travis Shaffer, who has 10 years experience as a K-9 handler, and has guided me through this journey. Three Rivers’ donation is a huge step in making this a reality. I’ve received a donation from Legends Bank and have pledged donations from MidAmerica Bank and a few very supportive individuals. However, the total cost for this project is $20,000 - this pays for the K-9, training, and equipment required for the patrol car to safely travel with the K-9.

“We have an incredibly supportive community and I’m confident this goal is attainable. K9’s on the Front Line have been very supportive and continue to provide guidance and resources to move this process forward. If all goes as planned, I will select and obtain the K9 in March and several months of intense training will immediately follow. The goal is to have the K-9 ready and working by early summer of 2025. I am really excited for the opportunity to provide this service for our county and am super grateful for all who are helping make it possible!”