Canine Deputy Drago Passes Away

The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office is sad to report the death of Canine Deputy Drago. Drago and his handler were on a training exercise on June 14, 2022 when Drago suffered a heat-related injury. He was immediately transported to a veterinarian clinic for treatment. Drago was stabilized and began to show signs of recovery. Drago…

Former Sheriff, Ray Dyal, Passes Away

The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office is saddened to learn of the passing of former Sheriff, Raymond “Ray” Dyal. Sheriff Dyal was appointed Sheriff of Columbia County and served from May of 1984 until January of 1985. In a statement, Sheriff Mark Hunter said, we extend our sincerest condolences to the family and friends of Sheriff…

New Employees Sworn In

Deputy Humes and Sheriff Hunter   On Wednesday May 25th, a swearing in ceremony was conducted at the CCSO Operations Center. Sheriff Hunter administered oaths to three new employees. The ceremony was attended by family, friends, and CCSO personnel. Heidi Humes was sworn in as a deputy sheriff. Amanda Donaway was sworn in as an…

Inmate Death

The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office is sad to report the death of an inmate at the Columbia County Detention Facility. The incident occurred shortly after 12:00pm on May 5, 2022. Staff at the detention facility attempted to perform lifesaving measures on the inmate, but were unsuccessful. Although details of the incident are limited at this…

Two Employees Receive “Lifesaving Medal”

(Pictured from Left: Cpl. Maulden, Sheriff Hunter, & Detention Officer Collins)   On Wednesday May 4, 2022, Sheriff Hunter awarded the “Lifesaving Medal” to Detention Officer Mark Collins and Corporal James Maulden. This award recognizes their actions on January 30, 2022 while serving at the Columbia County Detention Facility. Detention Officer Collins observed an inmate…