Douglas County Sheriff's Deputy Dave Wintle dies after brief illness

The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office has announced the passing of Deputy Dave Wintle, 51. He died Thursday morning following a brief illness.

After experiencing difficulty in breathing he was transported to the hospital where he later died.

The Sheriff's Office said, "Deputy Wintle was a 29 year veteran of the Department who served with distinction, earning several unit citations and commendations during his career as a deputy sheriff."

Deputy Wintle began his public service life as a 911 dispatcher before becoming a deputy sheriff.

During his career, he served in Patrol, Courts and Criminal Investigations before spending the last 13 years as a K9 handler with his partner Chet.

Deputy Wintle is preceded in death by his father, former Douglas County Sheriff Chief Deputy Jim Wintle and is survived by his wife and four children.

Funeral arrangements are pending.