Jail K9 Koda Remembered
Longtime Jackson County Sheriff’s Office narcotics dog dies after years of dedicated service
The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office is mourning the passing of Corrections K9 Koda, who died this week surrounded by family, according to the agency.
K9 Koda served as the Jackson County Jail’s narcotics detection dog for nearly six years before retiring in June 2024. During his career, Koda played a key role in maintaining safety and security within the jail, assisting deputies and protecting Adults in Custody by detecting illegal substances prohibited inside the facility.
Trained to detect methamphetamine, heroin, cocaine, marijuana, and fentanyl, Koda worked primarily within the jail but also assisted with school and airport searches and participated in community events. His work extended beyond daily operations, contributing to broader safety efforts throughout the region.
Koda was a male chocolate Labrador and Chesapeake Bay Retriever mix, born in August 2014. The Sheriff’s Office acquired him from a local police agency after changes to Oregon’s marijuana laws limited his ability to conduct field searches. Because marijuana and other illicit drugs remain prohibited within correctional facilities, Koda became a valuable asset to jail operations.
Koda and his handler, Corporal Le Bel, earned their initial handler certification through the American Society of Canine Trainers. They later certified and consistently recertified through both the Oregon Police Canine Association and the California Narcotics Canine Association. According to the Sheriff’s Office, Koda never failed a certification during his career.
After retiring, Koda lived full-time with Corporal Le Bel and his family, where he transitioned from working dog to family companion. During retirement, he enjoyed time with children, toys, and other dogs, learned to relax away from the structure of work, and took pleasure in activities like swimming, playing fetch, and searching for hidden items around the house.
“He really was one of the very best partners,” Corporal Le Bel said.
The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office expressed gratitude for Koda’s years of service and honored his legacy as a loyal and dedicated working dog.
Images: JCSO
