DCSO K-9 Ares helps find Redmond domestic assault suspect hiding in attic

Thermal imaging unit, pole camera also employed

REDMOND, Ore. (KTVZ) – A Redmond man accused of domestic violence, including choking and a threat to kill a woman with a knife, was found hiding in an attic and arrested Thursday night, thanks to a thermal imaging device, pole camera and a Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office K-9 team, police said.

Officers were dispatched around 7:15 p.m. to a reported domestic disturbance at a home in the 2800 block of Southwest Indian Circle, Lt. Jesse Petersen said.

Officers were met by the victim, who was able to escape the home, he said. They tried to contact the suspect, Daylen Anderson, 36, without success. He refused to communicate with officers and messaged a family member that he had left the home.

With help of sheriff’s Deputy Michael Mangin and his K-9 partner, Ares, officers learned Anderson had climbed into the attic, Petersen said.

Officers used a handheld thermal imaging device, a pole camera and Areas to determine Anderson’s hiding spot, then negotiated his surrender without further incident, the lieutenant said.

Anderson was booked into the county jail in Bend on charges of coercion, strangulation, fourth-degree assault and menacing. He remained held Friday on $55,000 bail.

In 2018, court records show, Anderson pleaded guilty to a second-degree theft charge, and two other burglary and theft charges were dismissed. He was sentenced to a year's probation and was ordered to have no contact with the victim.

"The Redmond Police Department would like to acknowledge the strength and courage the victim showed by reporting this incident to law enforcement, which in turn potentially saved her own life," Petersen said in a news release.

"If you are experiencing family violence and are in need of resources to help you through difficult times we encourage you to reach out to Saving Grace, whose mission is to provide comprehensive family violence and sexual assault services in Central Oregon and to promote the value of living life free from violence. Saving Grace’s 24-hour helpline number is 541-389-7021."  

Petersen said the Redmond Police Department also wanted to thank the sheriff's office for its assistance in the investigation.