SCSO honors deputies

WALLACE –– The actions and bravery of Shoshone County Sheriff’s Deputies Corporal Darius Dustin and Detective Will Keller were celebrated during a recent ceremony at the Shoshone County Public Safety Building.  

Both men had been involved in high-pressure, dangerous situations that threatened public safety.  

“These types of awards are incredibly important because they highlight some of the outstanding work our deputies are doing,” SCSO Patrol Captain Seth Green said. 

Dustin was awarded a Medal of Valor for his part in a 2022 standoff in Wallace between a heavily armed resident and members of the SCSO. During the standoff, Dustin, along with Shoshone County Sheriff Mike Gunderson, attempted to resolve the situation peacefully while also preventing any other civilian casualties.  

Unfortunately, the citizen did not respond to Gunderson or Dustin’s pleas and Dustin was forced to shoot him. After firing, he then ran from his covered position to attempt life-saving measures on the man, but he died shortly after.  

Keller received the Law Enforcement Purple Heart for an injury he sustained in the line of duty in December 2022. Keller was assisting in a welfare check on a child when he discovered a man hiding in the residence’s bathroom who was violating a no-contact order. While escorting the man to his vehicle, he kicked Keller in the knee, causing extensive damage that reportedly won’t ever fully heal. Keller was then attacked by a woman at the residence. Keller was able to detain both adults before backup arrived despite his injured leg.  

However, his injury sidelined him for multiple months before he was able to return to work.  

“This profession is growing increasingly more dangerous, and our deputies routinely put themselves in harm's way to protect and serve the public,” Green said. “They work long hours including numerous night shifts that take them away from their families. The traumatic events that our deputies observe regularly test one's mental fortitude and place strains on deputies and their families in ways that few can comprehend. We are pleased to have deputies of this caliber and grateful to be able to recognize them in this way.” 

    Undersheriff Stutzke also awarded Detective Will Keller (center) with the Law Enforcement Purple Heart. Keller was attacked during a welfare check that resulted in permanent damage to Keller's knee.