Gov. Gianforte Recognizes ‘Shark’ of Lewistown Police Department’s K9 Unit

Spotlights Small Businesses as 56 County Tour Continues

• June 07 2022

WINNETT, Mont. – Stopping in Lewistown today for his 56 County Tour, Governor Greg Gianforte today recognized the Lewistown Police Department’s K9 unit, including the force’s German Shepherd known as Shark, for its work to interdict illicit drugs and protect Fergus County.

“We treasure our Montana communities, and want them to continue to be a safe, healthy place for our kids to grow up,” Gov. Gianforte said. “Thanks to the hard work of Lewistown P.D.’s K9 unit, we’re getting drugs off the streets and holding drug dealers accountable. Keep it up, Shark!”

Gov. Gianforte greets Shark of the Lewistown PD K9 Unit with Officer Michael Patterson

Last January, Shark joined Lewistown PD after the community fundraised for a K9 unit to improve public safety. Since that time, Shark has had 27 deployments and been involved in 167 drug investigations, leading to 110 citations and arrests.

“When most people think of Lewistown, they often comment how life can be lived a little slower than most places in the nation. However, Lewistown in not immune to the devastating effects of illegal drugs, and that is why the Lewistown Police Department implemented a K9 program in January 2021,” Chief of Police Justin Jenness said. “Our community stepped up when called upon, and enough funds were raised to start the K9 program in Central Montana. We are forever grateful for the community support and strive each day to keep drugs off our streets, with the goal of keeping Lewistown one of the last best places in Montana.”

The governor presented Shark and Lewistown PD’s K9 unit a Spirit of Montana award for their work to combat the drug epidemic and improve public safety.

Also in Lewistown, the governor recognized FWP Game Warden Kyle Anderson with an Outstanding Service Award for his passion and commitment to excellence in public service. The Outstanding Service Award recognizes state employees who go above and beyond in their line of work while serving Montanans.

During today’s tour stops, the governor also spotlighted several Montana small businesses.

Calvin Hochstrat, right, of Hochstrat Braiding shows Gov. Gianforte his braid work

In Meagher County, the governor met with local small business owners and artisans Calvin and Kathy Hochstrat. Calvin is a self-taught rawhide braider, making products made to withstand “working cowboy” use. His braid work has been displayed in Western art collections across the country and in Canada, France, Australia, and New Zealand.

Gov. Gianforte also heard from Kathy Hochstrat about her production of raw whole milk, made possible by the Montana Local Food Choice Act signed by the governor last year.

“This really opened up an important source of cash flow for our family operation,” Kathy said. “It’s meant a great deal to us, and the extra money has helped cover my husband’s medical costs and keep him alive.”

In Judith Basin County, the governor toured Wolf Creek Honey facility. Wolf Creek Honey provides jobs to the local community, as well as quality Made in Montana products.

In Petroleum County, the governor toured Spurr’s Custom Saddles, a local leatherwork operation ranch in Teigen. Owned by Spurr Watson, the shop produces handmade, high-quality saddles and other leather products to customers across the country.

To cap off the day, Gov. Gianforte held a town hall over dinner at the Winnett Bar and Grill. The governor and residents discussed topics including the impact of inflation on Montana families, especially those in agriculture, as well as how the TEACH Act is helping to recruit and retain starting teachers in rural Montana.   

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