Clearwater County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue activity report
By Robert Reineke
Clearwater County Search and Rescue (SAR) did not have any new searches in November.
SAR completed one search and one recovery mission in October. On Oct. 18 we were notified that Mr. George E. Carpenter had not been seen since Oct. 17. His residence was reported as unlocked by neighbors and this led us to believe that Mr. Carpenter had not planned on a long-term absence.
Eighteen SAR members and sheriff’s deputies conducted a seven-hour search for Mr. Carpenter’s truck covering the open roads between Johnson Mill, Bartlett Point, Judge Town and Orofino. The search area was about 100 square miles. A road search was conducted, as we thought Mr. Carpenter may have had an incident while cutting fire wood and would be near his truck.
The search was stopped at dark Oct. 18, as SAR did not have any new clues and no trace of the truck was found. It was later reported that Mr. Carpenter was safe in Arizona.
The SAR Dog Team and Clearwater County Sheriff’s Office assisted Idaho County Sheriff’s Office and the Salmon River Dive Team in a search for a body we were unable to recover on the Snake River. The Dog Team put to use skills and search techniques recently learned at the North America Police Dog Association cadaver training and Tactical Training Team – Tracking Conference.
The Security Team provided support for the November residence fire in Weippe. Thanks to all who participated in the activities.
Search and Rescue recognized the Clearwater Sheriff’s dispatch group for their assistance and help with search activities. A recognition plaque was given to the group and a small appreciation gift for each of the six dispatchers.
Search and Rescue continues to focus on member training. Search and Rescue is also looking for new members. Contact Robert Reineke, at 208-827-0415, Chief Deputy Rick Miller at the Sheriff’s Office, 476-4527, or look online at www.clearwatercounty.org/?Forms1 for an application.