Development News for La Grande, Oregon

Oregon State Police Trooper Discusses Drug Interdiction, DRE Expertise, and Fallen Officers Foundation

Trooper Charlie Rolfe of the Oregon State Police discussed his role as a canine handler for drug detection, the types of drugs his dog Orr is trained to detect (cocaine, meth, heroin, fentanyl), and how drug trafficking operates in Oregon, with cartels importing drugs from Mexico and distributing them through stash houses. He highlighted that the drug business is larger than American agriculture by monetary value. Rolfe also detailed the process of traffic stops for suspected drug transport, including using dog alerts as probable cause for searches, the legal nuances of obtaining warrants in Oregon, and the challenges of drug interdiction work. He touched upon the prevalence of fentanyl and meth as the primary drugs of concern on Eastern Oregon highways. Furthermore, Rolfe elaborated on his training as a Drug Recognition Expert (DRE), the rigorous process involved, and how DREs assist in DUI cases where alcohol is not a factor. He also shared his personal journey into law enforcement, his military service, and his involvement with the Oregon Fallen Badge Foundation, which supports families of officers killed in the line of duty or active duty deaths. He explained the foundation's funding through fundraisers like a ball and auction, and a golf tournament, and his current role as a statewide vice president. Finally, Rolfe described the operational areas for Oregon State Police in Eastern Oregon, emphasizing their role as a resource for local agencies, and reflected on the rewarding aspects of his job, including helping people and seeing former arrestees become productive citizens.