Mothers Against Drunk Driving honors DCSO Sgt. Kent Vander Kamp for commitment to DUII enforcement

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Sergeant Kent Vander Kamp of the Central Oregon Drug Enforcement Team and the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office was recognized Saturday by Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) for his "exceptional dedication to investigating impaired driving enforcement, investigations and his tireless volunteer work around Deschutes County, including the youth prevention education organization, CLEAR Alliance."

During the event at the Alpenglow Park in Bend, Cate Duke, State Programs Manager for Mothers Against Drunk Driving- Oregon, said, "Kent's dedication to serving his community as a Drug Recognition Expert, DRE Instructor, SFST and Intoxilyzer 8000 instructor, as well as his skills and diligence as an investigator has saved central Oregon lives and helped provide justice for victims and their families.  Kent's consistent drive to achieve and pursue excellence in all he does is commendable, and his extensive volunteer service in the community speaks volumes."

Kent Vander Kamp currently leads the Central Oregon Drug Enforcement Team as a Detective Sergeant. In addition to his leadership role at CODE, Kent serves Deschutes County as a Drug Recognition Expert, a specially law enforcement officer has received specialized training to recognize impairment in individuals suspected of being under the influence of drugs, including both legal and illegal substances.

Kent has spent over 2,000 hours teaching other law enforcement officers around Oregon the important skills needed to investigate impaired driving. This includes standardized field sobriety testing, breath testing, advanced roadside testing, and drug recognition expert students. When off-duty, Kent also leads a statewide non-profit drug diversion and education program raising awareness and educating youth and adults to prevent substance misuse and impaired driving and promote mental health and wellness. 

"In the battle against impaired driving, every effort counts, and every life saved is a triumph. This recognition from Mothers Against Drunk Driving is not just a recognition of my dedication, but a reminder of our collective commitment to making our roads safer. This includes my fellow Deputies, Troopers, Officers, ODOT staff, 911 Dispatchers, Victim Advocates and prosecutors around Deschutes County. Together, we stand as a shield against the perils of impaired driving, knowing that the support of our community and organizations like MADD is our guiding light," said Sgt. Vander Kamp. "I'm humbled and inspired to continue the fight against the dangers of impaired driving."

Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) is a non-profit organization that seeks to raise awareness about the dangers and life altering consequences of impaired driving, while honoring those whose lives have been lost or who have suffered serious injuries in impaired driving crashes.  The funds raised from this event are used to support MADD programs and services across the state. Those include Victim Services, Youth Prevention Education, Public Awareness Campaigns (media/social media educational campaigns), Law Enforcement Support, and Legislative Action Services.