Staff

Keith Kennedy, Lieutenant

Keith Kennedy was raised in Umatilla, attending grades 1 through 12 and graduating from Umatilla High School. He also holds an AA degree in Criminal Justice. During his youth, Keith was coached in Babe Ruth Baseball by a Umatilla Police Officer, Officer Graves, whose volunteer coaching deeply influenced Keith's decision to pursue a career in law enforcement. Officer Graves demonstrated how community involvement could positively impact young people.

After graduating from high school, Keith explored military service as a path toward law enforcement, ultimately joining the United States Coast Guard. During his six years of service, Keith served as a certified boarding team member and started a family with his wife. They returned to Umatilla in 1993, where Keith became a reserve police officer with the Hermiston Police Department in January 1994. He joined the Umatilla Police Department in July 1995, where they raised their three children, all of whom graduated from Umatilla High School.

Keith has deep roots in the community, having coached football from Grid Kid level to High School. He looks forward to witnessing his grandchildren grow up in this supportive community.

Throughout his 29 years with the Umatilla Police Department, Keith has been promoted to Sergeant and then to Lieutenant. He cherishes many memorable moments and has observed significant changes in both the community and the police department, including an increase in staffing from 7 officers when he started to the current 15 officers. Outside of work, Keith and his family enjoy fishing, hunting, camping, and simply spending time together.

Natalia Tovey, Patrol Sergeant

Sergeant Natalia Tovey joined the Umatilla Police Department in 2005. She was inspired to become a police officer after experiencing early childhood marked by addiction and domestic violence, which were pervasive influences. Fear and uncertainty became constant companions, leading Sergeant Tovey to develop a heightened sense of vigilance and self-reliance at a young age.

During her high school years in Hermiston, Sergeant Tovey’s life took a transformative turn when her grandparents provided the stability, guidance, and love she needed. She graduated in 1999 and attended Columbia Basin Community College on a softball scholarship, playing for two years. Sergeant Tovey views college softball not just as a game, but as a crucible of lessons that shaped her approach to life and eventually her career in law enforcement.

In 2004, Sergeant Tovey began her law enforcement career as a Reserve Police Officer for the city of Stanfield. This role introduced her to the fundamentals of policing, from patrolling neighborhoods and assisting with community events to supporting full-time officers in various capacities. It was a formative period during which she honed her skills and developed a profound respect for the responsibilities entrusted to law enforcement professionals.

Hired as a full-time Police Officer with the Umatilla Police Department in 2005, Sergeant Tovey embraced the challenges and opportunities of the role. She immersed herself in the complexities of law enforcement, from conducting investigations and enforcing laws to building relationships within the community. Dedicated to improving community perceptions of the police, she actively worked to break down barriers and foster communication within the diverse community.

The journey from Reserve Officer to Full-time police officer and eventually becoming a Sergeant in 2016 has been marked by challenges that tested her resolve and strengthened her leadership skills. From managing critical incidents and promoting officer development to navigating complex community issues, each experience has contributed to Sergeant Tovey’s growth as a law enforcement professional.

Throughout her career, Sergeant Tovey has assumed various responsibilities that shaped her as both a professional and a leader. She immersed herself in comprehensive training to prepare for the complexities of policing, including programs as a Field Training Officer, Gang Officer, Women’s Self-Defense Instructor, Situational Awareness Instructor, Reserve Coordinator, and Media Relations. These programs not only honed her skills but also instilled a deep sense of responsibility for the safety and well-being of others.

Central to her life is her family, who have been pillars of support and love. Her grandparents, spouse, three children, and three dogs have played pivotal roles in shaping her values, providing unwavering encouragement, and grounding her in moments of triumph and challenge. Her children are her confidants, her cheerleaders, and her most trusted compass.

Itzel Claustro, Detective

Detective Claustro is an alumna of Umatilla High School, graduating in the class of 2010. After high school, she worked various jobs to support her college education. She attended Blue Mountain Community College intermittently until around 2013, when she moved to Salem, OR, to attend Chemeketa Community College. While in Salem, she continued working and studying for a year before returning to Umatilla.

In 2014, she continued balancing work and school but was uncertain about her career path. With an interest in parole and probation, she began exploring jobs that would provide relevant experience. She saw law enforcement as a promising avenue to gain the necessary skills. Although hesitant about working in her hometown, Detective Claustro applied to the Umatilla Police Department and was hired in June 2018. That same month, she graduated from Blue Mountain Community College with an Associates of Applied Science in Criminal Justice.

Detective Claustro completed a 16-week academy in Salem, OR, and finished her field training in 2019 after obtaining solo status. She found fulfillment working alongside her UPD colleagues who shared a dedication to making a difference in the community. In both 2019 and 2020, she was voted Detective of the Year by her peers.

In August 2023, Detective Claustro was assigned to the Detective position, involving longer and more complex investigations. She also attained her Intermediate Certification from DPSST in 2024. She takes pride in being the first Hispanic female hired full-time by the Umatilla Police Department and values building relationships with neighboring law enforcement agencies and community partnerships.

In addition to her detective duties, Detective Claustro serves as an FTEP (Field Training and Evaluation Program) and CRASE (Civilian Response to Active Shooter Events) trainer. She also works part-time for the Umatilla School District. On her days off, she enjoys spending time with her family, catching up with her best friends, and going to the gym. She loves having a good time and making people laugh.

Detective Claustro is grateful for the friendships she has formed in her career and the support she receives from her family. She strives to excel in all her roles, aspiring to be the best mom, coworker, employee, sister, aunt, and community member she can be.

Her favorite quote by F. Scott Fitzgerald resonates deeply with her: “For what it’s worth: it’s never too late or, in my case, too early to be whoever you want to be. There’s no time limit, stop whenever you want. You can change or stay the same, there are no rules to this thing. We can make the best or the worst of it. I hope you make the best of it. And I hope you see things that startle you. I hope you feel things you never felt before. I hope you meet people with a different point of view. I hope you live a life you’re proud of. If you find that you’re not, I hope you have the courage to start all over again.”

Katie Skillman, Patrol Officer

Katie Skillman, a proud country girl hailing from Washington State and Missouri, has led a life deeply rooted in rural values and community service. In her elementary and high school years in Washington State Katie worked on her family's cattle ranch and assisted in their custom farming business. From riding horses in the rodeo to herding cattle and operating tractors, her upbringing instilled a strong work ethic and a love for the outdoors and animals.

During her teenage years in Rogersville Missouri, Katie remained active in a diverse array of activities. She excelled in FFA, band, cheerleading, track, choir, musicals, competitive drill team horse riding, and even taught horse riding to special needs children.

In 2012, Katie enlisted in the Army National Guard. Though her military service was cut short due to medical reasons, this experience left a void, which she later found fulfilled through her career in law enforcement. Katie believes strongly that military and first responder careers are callings, and she feels privileged to serve her community in this capacity.

As a young adult Katie earned an Associate’s Degree in Agriculture Production from Blue Mountain Community College in 2014. She worked as a salesman at RDO Equipment Company before answering the call to join law enforcement. Katie is also a devoted mother to two children—a daughter adopted from foster care and a son who recently celebrated his first birthday.

Katie's journey into law enforcement began in 2017 when she joined the Umatilla Police Department as a full-time Police Officer. In 2020 Katie became a certified Taser Instructor and completed the Field Training and Evaluation Program becoming a Field Training Officer. In 2021 she obtained her Intermediate Certification. She has also completed specialized training in Crisis Intervention, Reid Interview and Interrogation, Advanced Road Side Impairment, and Truckers Against Trafficking, amongst many others. At this time Katie is also the most senior patrol officer for the City of Umatilla. Katie takes immense pride in serving and protecting her community in Umatilla County, where she has lived since 2010 embodying the values of service and community in all aspects of her life.

Outside of her duties in law enforcement, Katie enjoys hunting, horseback riding, and operates a small photography business. She cherishes her roles as a mother, wife, sister, daughter, granddaughter, friend, and proud American.

Hector Hernandez, Patrol Officer

Hector Hernandez, originally from Stanfield, Oregon, embarked on his journey in law enforcement with a clear mission to bridge gaps between communities and police. After graduating from Stanfield Secondary School in 2012, he pursued his education at Blue Mountain Community College, earning an Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice.

In 2019, Hector launched his law enforcement career, driven by a desire to address perceptions within his Hispanic community towards the police. Growing up, he witnessed apprehension and mistrust among Hispanic families towards law enforcement, often hindered by language barriers. Hector, fluent in both English and Spanish, saw an opportunity to serve as a vital link, ensuring that all community members felt empowered to seek police assistance when needed.

Before entering law enforcement, Hector gained diverse work experience, from physical labor and gas station attendant to selling car parts and working as a security guard. These roles equipped him with a broad skill set and a grounded perspective on community needs.

Since joining law enforcement, Hector has found fulfillment in his role as a Police Officer. He embraces the excitement of his duties, including the thrill of driving fast and apprehending suspects. His primary goal, however, remains focused on community service and fostering trust between law enforcement and residents.

Looking ahead, Hector aims to continue his career in law enforcement, striving to enhance community safety and strengthen relationships across cultural divides. His dedication to public service and his ability to communicate effectively in both languages exemplify his commitment to making a positive impact in Stanfield and beyond.

Brylee Dufloth, Patrol Officer

Brylee Dufloth, a native of Umatilla, Oregon, developed a passion for law enforcement from a young age, inspired by a desire to contribute positively to her community. Growing up in a family deeply rooted in local law enforcement and community service, Brylee attended school in Umatilla and graduated from Hermiston High School. His involvement in sports like baseball, basketball, and football began early and instilled in him a strong sense of teamwork and dedication.

Following high school, Brylee pursued his interest in Criminal Justice at Walla Walla Community College. He gained diverse work experience across industries such as construction, retail sales, maintenance, automotive repair, and manufacturing, all of which provided him with a solid foundation of skills essential for his career path.

Brylee commenced his law enforcement journey in July 2022 as a reserve officer with the Umatilla Police Department. After completing the regional reserve academy in November 2022, he dedicated countless nights alongside full-time officers, honing his skills and expanding his knowledge base. The experience solidified his commitment to the profession, leading to his appointment as a full-time officer in April 2023.

In May 2023, Brylee completed training at the Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and received his Basic Police Certification in September of the same year. He successfully completed the field training and evaluation program, progressing to serve independently as a solo officer. Brylee has found fulfillment in his role at the Umatilla Police Department and eagerly anticipates a long and rewarding career ahead.

Anthony Garcilazo, Police Cadet

Anthony Garcilazo, known to many as Tony, was born in Hermiston, Oregon, and raised in the beautiful city of Umatilla. He graduated from Umatilla High School in 2010 and is married with four sons. In his spare time, Tony enjoys biking with his family, visiting the park, and savoring the stunning view of the Umatilla River. Weekends are often spent traveling across the Pacific Northwest for his older son's soccer games. Tony finds joy in hobbies such as mountain biking, working on cars, collecting diecasts, and participating in soccer as a player and coach.

Becoming a police officer was a thoughtful decision for Tony. He chose this career path because he wanted to engage in meaningful and impactful work. His primary goal is to make a positive difference in the community, protect and assist those in need, and contribute to everyone's safety and well-being. His commitment to service is deeply rooted in his desire to give back to the community that shaped him. Policing in his hometown holds special significance, allowing Tony to blend professional duties with a personal connection to the people and city he cherishes. He appreciates the community's trust and looks forward to building a strong, safe, and vibrant community together.

Brent Holden, Patrol Officer

Brent Holden has been with the Umatilla Police Department since March 2017. Initially hired as a full-time police officer (March 2017 – May 2019), he transitioned to a part-time role while maintaining a full-time career as a line haul driver for FedEx Freight, hauling two or three trailers at a time to destinations around the Northwest. Brent appreciates the opportunity to serve the community of Umatilla, even in a part-time capacity.

Brent was born and raised in the small town of Ephrata, Washington. His family relocated to Hermiston in 2000 when he was 15 years old for work at the Umatilla Chemical Depot. After high school, Brent worked in various warehousing and logistics jobs around the area. It wasn’t until his late 20s that he realized his true calling in life, which is to protect and serve. At age 29, Brent joined the military and served in the Navy for seven years, being honorably discharged as Machinist Mate First Class (MM1). Notably, he was on a year-long deployment in the Middle East during the birth of his second daughter and did not have the opportunity to meet her until she was nine months old.

Brent is devoted to his wife and two daughters, with almost all his free time outside of work spent with them. The family enjoys dining out and traveling, with Hawaii being their favorite vacation destination. During the summer, they love taking their boat on the river to go wake surfing and tubing. Brent also enjoys taking his Harley out for short trips on the open road.

Karen Dike, Background Investigator and Evidence Technician

Karen Dike was born and raised in Fossil, Oregon. Growing up on ranches, she was always considered a “rough and tumble tomboy.” In 1992, she relocated to Heppner for her husband to work at the local Kinzua mill. In early 1994, Karen found the two "great loves of her life" when she was offered a position at the Morrow County Sheriff’s Office and discovered she was going to become a mother. She has never regretted either of these choices, finding the journey both challenging and rewarding.

Karen loved working with the Sheriff’s Office and was fortunate to work with some amazing people who genuinely believed in community-oriented policing. She pursued her education, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Master’s in Criminal Justice Administration. As a patrol deputy, Karen served as a Field Training Officer and Reserve Coordinator, enjoying the opportunity to mentor others pursuing careers in service. Her most rewarding time at the Sheriff’s Office was the 12 years she spent as a detective specializing in crimes against women and children. She also participated in the Umatilla-Morrow County Major Crimes Team and became a medical-legal death investigator. During her time as a detective, Karen became a trainer, teaching in regional training sessions.

Karen retired from the Sheriff’s Office and moved to Indiana in 2016 to enjoy being a grandmother. After five rewarding and healing years, she returned to live in south Morrow County to be near family. Since retiring from the Sheriff’s Office, Karen has worked with local agencies conducting background investigations for new officers and handling property and evidence. She has also shared her experience through teaching at the reserve academy. Karen continues to be involved in the law enforcement profession and believes strongly in the ideal of public service.

In her spare time, Karen enjoys spending time outdoors and four-wheeling at the Morrow County OHV Park. She has 15 grandchildren who constantly bless her life and remind her to keep a sense of humor. An avid reader, Karen continues to enjoy learning and challenging herself. She characterizes her life as a great roller-coaster ride that she never wants to get off of.