09/12/2025
🐾 New Addition to the Sheriff’s Office Team! 🐾
The DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office is excited to welcome our new Animal Control Officer, Erika Hedge!
Erika brings a strong background in animal welfare to this role. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Veterinary Technology from Purdue University, is a Registered Veterinary Technologist, and has 7 years of experience as an Animal Control Officer with a previous agency.
In her new role, Erika will respond to animal-related calls, help reunite lost pets with their families, investigate neglect or cruelty cases, and work closely with shelters, veterinarians, and community partners.
Sheriff Thomas shared, “This program is a big step forward for both public safety and animal welfare. Having a trained professional focused on these calls allows our deputies to concentrate on law enforcement duties, while ensuring animals in need receive proper care and attention.”
💡 What this means for our community:
✅ Faster response to animal-related calls
✅ Safer handling of dangerous or aggressive animals
✅ Better care for lost, injured, or neglected pets
✅ Stronger partnerships with shelters, rescues, and vets
📞 If you encounter an animal-related concern should continue to call DeKalb County Dispatch at 260-333-7911, where the ACO will be dispatched if appropriate.
Join us in welcoming Erika to the team — we’re proud to take this step forward in serving both our community and our four-legged friends! 🐕🐈
