LA PINE, OR -- A dedicated La Pine-area deputy is now patrolling south county, thanks to a new agreement between the city of La Pine and the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office.

La Pine incorporated as a city in 2006, but does not have its own police force. The contract with DCSO for a dedicated patrol staff is similar to a deal struck with Sisters in 2020.

Previous coverage: DCSO, Sisters Discuss City Police Force

Lieutenant DeLuca was assigned to La Pine in January of 2022. But Deputy Ebner, assigned this month, is the first dedicated patrol deputy. Ebner was hired by the Sheriff's Office in 2020. Lt. DeLuca has been with DCSO since 1998, becoming a Sergeant in 2006 and a patrol Lieutenant in 2014.

“The Deschutes County Sheriff's Office is honored to enter into this enhanced service contract with the City of La Pine, adding a lieutenant and an additional dedicated deputy to serve the residents and visitors in La Pine," Captain William Bailey said in a statement, "These dedicated positions are in addition to our other supervisors and deputies that already provide 24-hour patrol service and emergency response in southern Deschutes County."