Senior Resource Deputy Ryan Falkner has many passions, but the most overarching one is helping others. He fills his professional life and his free time with service. Ryan has worked for the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO) for the past 17 years.

“I am grateful to focus on my passion for giving older adults their true golden years,” said Ryan.

Law enforcement is a Falkner family affair. Ryan’s wife Amanda also works for DCSO and Leo, a mini Bernedoodle and technically property of DCSO, lives with Ryan and they go everywhere together.

DCSO is leading the nation with the first Senior Resource Dog, but also with the Senior Resource Deputy position. There are currently only two other agencies who have similar positions.

Leo and Ryan travel around Douglas County to events and presentations to educate senior citizens. Leo’s current role is to bring comfort and joy to a population that is often forgotten, added Ryan. Leo has also nearly doubled the number of attendees at most of Ryan’s presentations.

“Leo is just icing on the cake. We are the Senior Resource duo – Leo brings the joy and I bring the information,” Ryan said.

Colorado Animal Care Foundation donated Leo to DCSO when he was 3 months old. He was rescued from an out-of-state puppy mill. Douglas County residents were involved in naming the newest K-9 deputy, with more than 4,000 votes. “Leo” won by 200 votes.

Leo’s impact on the community has already been felt in the few months since he arrived. He aids in bridging the gap between citizens and law enforcement and makes many residents feel more comfortable approaching and talking to Ryan.

When there was a small laundry room fire in a nursing home recently, Leo diffused the stressful situation and brought instant joy when he walked into the building.

Leo’s training continues. As he grows out of the puppy stage, he will receive training on emotional support and hopefully additional training specific to senior adults.

Ryan describes himself as “an educator to our older residents to prevent them from becoming victims.” He gives presentations about self protection to a variety of groups. The most common topic he teaches is about scams (see related article page 3), with an emphasis on how the mind physically responds to them. “We believe understanding how our minds work towards scams can prepare us better,” Ryan stated.

When he is not teaching, Ryan and Leo make regular visits to retirement communities. They like to be familiar faces at the facilities in Douglas County.

Outside of law enforcement, Ryan has another passion: coaching a Special Olympics team, the Castle Rock Incredibles. They practice and compete in powerlifting, baseball, basketball and triathlon and the team recently attended the State Summer Games where they competed in powerlifting. “They inspire and motivate me in ways I did not think were possible,” added Ryan.

Ryan enjoys spending time with Amanda and rooting for the University of Colorado football team. He never misses a game and has faith in Coach Prime, Deion Sanders.

Wrestling is another of Ryan’s interests that started in childhood and has continued into his adult life. He enjoys watching professional wrestling and he collects wrestling action figures. “They are not dolls,” he is quick to clarify.

 

By Celeste McNeil; photos courtesy of Deputy Ryan Falkner