Thurston County Sheriff’s Office rings in new year with promotions and K-9 readiness 

The Thurston County Sheriff’s Office (TCSO) started 2025 with some big moves aimed at strengthening leadership, improving case resolution and bolstering its K-9 unit. 

“New year, new assignments,” said Sheriff Derek Sanders, who announced the changes on Thursday, Jan. 2. 

The sheriff emphasized adapting to new funding, agency restructuring and upcoming retirements. 

Sanders also framed the move as a long-term strategy to enhance the TCSO’s effectiveness. 

Promotions elevate leadership ranks 

Two deputies were promoted to sergeant, in turn stepping into leadership roles within the department. 

Corrections Deputy Taylor Hendershot and Patrol Deputy Levi Locken earned the new ranks based on their consistent performance and dedication to the department. 

“Both of these sergeants have demonstrated exemplary work at TCSO, and we are excited to move them into formal leadership roles,” Sanders said. 

The promotions come as TCSO prepares for anticipated retirements and shifts in its workforce. 

According to Sanders, Hendershot and Locken will oversee operational teams and help guide departmental priorities. 

Detective assignments 

For years, detective roles at TCSO remained vacant to maximize patrol staffing. 

That changed on Tuesday, as new detectives moved into positions sidelined due to resource constraints. 

“As staffing improves, the positions are now being filled to address caseload,” Sanders said. 

The new detective assignments reflect a big shift in the agency’s strategy, which balances patrol and investigative needs to handle growing casework. 

As the sheriff mentioned, the positions are expected to reduce backlogs and enhance the department’s ability to close cases. 

K-9 certification adds tactical edge 

Meanwhile, the TCSO’s K-9 unit celebrated a milestone as K-9s Asher and Manny were officially certified in Washington state. 

The dogs, accompanied by their handlers, were honored with official portraits recognizing their readiness to serve. 

“We look forward to all of their future captures with their handlers,” Sanders said. 

The certifications signal TCSO’s commitment to its K-9 program, which tracks suspects, finds evidence and assists with patrols. 

“Congratulations to all of our newly promoted staff, K-9s and detectives,” said Sanders in looking ahead to a productive year.