There’s Good News: Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office honors heroes at first annual awards

BEND, Ore. — The Deschutes County Sheriff's Office held its first annual awards ceremony Thursday evening at Caldera High School in Bend. The gathering took place to honor deputies, staff, and community members for outstanding service, leadership, and heroism across Central Oregon.

The event featured a wide range of accolades recognizing various levels of exceptional service. Among the honors presented were the Life Saving Medal, given to those who took deliberate action to save a life in a critical situation, and the Sheriff’s Medal, which recognizes exceptional courage that goes beyond normal duty.

The ceremony also highlighted community-minded leadership through two distinct legacy awards:

• The Les Stiles Medal: Awarded to Dick Ross for leading with humility, integrity, and empathy.
• The Ernie Brown Medal: Awarded for excellence in public service and meaningful community impact.

Both awards were named in honor of fallen or past department members, alongside Officer Lauren Craven, who was posthumously awarded the Sheriff's Star, keeping the memory and legacy of those who went before them at the forefront of the evening.

The evening was emceed by longtime Central Oregon radio broadcaster Dave Clemens, host of The Dave Clemens Experience on 105.7 KQAK. Attendees were also treated to a special musical performance during the program by sophomore fiddle player Chance Mott , a young local musician who has previously performed at a Grand Ole Opry pre-show. Chance was also presented with the Master of Ceremony Award.

Organizers emphasized that the gathering was created to formally celebrate those who consistently go above and beyond to protect and enhance the livability of Deschutes County.