2024 in the state of Utah has been marred by a consistent drug problem, leading local authorities to do everything in their power to try and combat the ongoing crisis. Police methods have evolved as threats have evolved, but as Emery County Sheriff Tyson Huntington once said,” Sometimes old-school tactics are the best.” This was the case on Wednesday, Aug. 21 when K-9 Unit Deputy Dak and his handler Deputy Egan Smith caused another drug bust along I-70 in Green River.

In a Facebook post shared by the Emery County Sheriff’s Office, the organization stated that while on a regular patrol, Deputy Smith had Dak sniffing around semi-trucks when Dak indicated that he had detected something. That something turned out to be 4 pounds of heroin and 2.5 pounds of cocaine.

Deputy Smith acted quickly, immediately going to speak to the driver before searching the truck and finding the drugs. After this discovery, the driver of the semi was promptly arrested.

Sheriff Huntington commented on the bust,” Great job Deputy Smith and Dak on your relentless pursuit of those trying to harm our county. Great job to all of our deputies who show up every day to serve our public inside and outside of the jail.” He continued,” I am grateful you have the strength and courage to stand as the sheepdogs and fight on behalf of us who are trying our best to work, raise our families, go to school, or otherwise live in peace in this blessed area.”

In previous conversations, Sheriff Huntington has stressed the importance of operations like this,” We have a huge drug trafficking corridor with I-70 in our county and we have to take it seriously. Our deputies always have to consider this with every action they take.”

Ending the message, Sheriff Huntington shared a quote that reminds him of the Sheriff’s Office,” The true warrior fights not because he hates what is in front of him, but because he loves what is behind him.”