September 21, 2021 3:10 p.m. 

The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office has announced the sudden and unexpected passing of K9 Grim.

A release said Grim, a German Shepherd was born in the Czech Republic on October 3, 2011 and was acquired by DCSO in June of 2013 after receiving a generous donation from an anonymous community member. Grim continued to serve the community until his passing.

Initially Grim was partnered with then Deputy Jon Dorlund. Following Dorland’s promotion, Grim was partnered with Deputy Oscar Rosas. Grim was successful with both handlers and paved the way for DCSO to expand its K9 program.

The release said over the course of his career, Grim had 111 finds and captures and assisted in 114 other incidents and arrests. Grim earned the title of “Top Dog” two years in a row at the Springfield K9 Competition.

Last Friday, Grim was taken to Bailey’s Veterinary Clinic in Roseburg when he began to display some lethargy. Doctors determined that Grim had developed cancer and one of the masses had ruptured, causing internal bleeding, sparking the need for emergency surgery. Following that surgery, the difficult decision was made that it was in Grim’s best interest to be put to sleep.

Sheriff John Hanlin said, “We’ve all experienced the loyalty of our canine family members. That same loyalty and bond between a well-trained police K9 and its handler is immeasurable”.  Hanlin said K9 Grim was a beloved officer of the Sheriff’s Office and will be greatly missed.

The release said DCSO would like to express its deep gratitude and thanks to all who have supported Grim over the years. Anyone wishing to make a tax-deductible donation in Grim’s memory can do so by mailing it to Friends of UV K9 Programs, at PO Box 213 in Roseburg, 97470. “K9 Grim” should be written in the memo line.