The Coconino County Sheriff's Office is broadening its fight against drug crimes with the latest addition to their K-9 Unit. According to a news release from FOX 10 Phoenix, Deputy Ray Bauer and his K9 partner, Ace, have recently been certified in narcotics detection and patrol. This particular team was made possible due to the support from Arizona Local Border Support Funding, a move aimed at bolstering community law enforcement capabilities in the realm of drug-related offenses.
Deputy Bauer has notably served the Sheriff's Office for over three years, demonstrating a high level of professionalism and a work ethic that has been consistent during his tenure. "Deputy Bauer brings more than three years of dedicated service to our organization. Throughout his career, he has consistently demonstrated professionalism, commitment, and a strong work ethic," CCSO said in a statement. Bauer also contributed significantly to the SWAT team as well as the K-9 program before stepping into his role as a handler.
Meanwhile, another CCSO K9 team has garnered accolades at the 2025 Desert Dog K9 Trials. Competing against K9 teams from four states, Corporal Ben Waibel and his K9 partner, Dex, took home multiple awards, including the Overall Top Dog Award. As reported by Coconino County's local news, their triumphant performance included a first-place finish in Tactical Obedience and third place in both Area Search and Handler Protection. Such triumphs underline the depth of skill and commitment present within the Sheriff's Office’s K9 Unit.
The duo has a history of excelling at these trials, marking consistent achievements in tactical operations since they first teamed up in the spring of 2022. Their bond and diligent training routine were also recognized earlier this year when they received the 2025 K9 Officer of the Year Award from the Arizona Narcotics Officers Association. "The bond between Corporal Waibel and Dex, along with their ongoing commitment to training and service, is a source of great pride for our agency," CCSO expressed in a proud acknowledgment of their team's accomplishments. The Desert Dog K9 Trials is an event designed to test and celebrate the competencies of K9 teams in a range of operations from obedience to tactical response and promotes inter-agency collaboration.
