WSD partners with Chelan County Regional Justice Center to improve school safety with drug detection K9, Gambit.

The Wenatchee School District is pleased to introduce a new member to our school community - K9 Gambit, the Chelan County Regional Justice Center's drug detection dog. 

Three-year-old border collie mix Gambit and his handler, Deputy Jacob Lewis, have joined forces with us to enhance the safety of our students and create a secure and thriving learning environment. 

Gambit's mission is to promote deterrence and education.

Gambit, a highly-trained drug detection dog, will play a crucial role in improving safety within our schools. He will visit secondary schools to perform drug sweeps of common areas, lockers, and hallways. His mere presence will discourage drug-related activities, fostering a safer and more productive educational atmosphere. Gambit and Lewis are also working with other school districts in Chelan County.

Gambit is trained to detect six odors, including fentanyl. In 2022, fentanyl was responsible for 200 deaths every day. Since 2018, over a quarter of a million Americans have died from a fentanyl overdose. Among adolescents, overdose mortality rates increased by 94.03% between 2019 and 2020 and by another 20.05% from 2020 to 2021, mostly due to fentanyl overdose.

Our ultimate goal is for Gambit to find no drugs at all. This program is not about arresting students who possess drugs but rather educating them and intervening when necessary to ensure their safety and well-being. Deputy Lewis and Gambit will actively engage in drug avoidance education programs in our primary and secondary schools. Gambit's presence will help students understand the dangers and consequences associated with substance abuse, empowering them to make informed and responsible decisions as they grow.

Our vision is to create drug-free schools.

The Wenatchee School District is committed to providing quality education while ensuring the safety of all students. Our partnership with law enforcement to enhance school safety is a testament to our unwavering dedication to the welfare of our students. With Gambit's help, we hope to create a safe and drug-free learning environment where students can thrive, grow, and succeed.

Learn more about Gambit on the Chelan County Website.
Follow along with Gambit and Deputy Lewis on Instagram or TikTok at k9_gambitandlewis.