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 MODESTO, CA - Retired Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Detective Gerald “Jerry” Matt died on Thursday, January 1, 2009, after a battle with cancer. The thirty-seven year veteran of the department was known nationally for his work in narcotics, specifically for his work with narcotics detection canines.
In July of 1999 Louis J. Freeh, Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, recognized Matt for his involvement in a narcotics case that lead to seven arrests, the recovery of thirty kilos of cocaine and $228,000.
The California Narcotics Officers Association (CNOA) recognized Matt as Narcotics Officer of the Year in 1988. California Senator Dan McCorquodale presented the award to him.
The majority of his career was spent working in the field of narcotics suppression and working with his dogs Maggie, Amy, Jon-Jon and Rooster. “During his career, Matt made significant contributions and development of procedures with regards to narcotic detection canines,” said Stanislaus County Sheriff Adam Christianson. “Matt spent countless hours away from home, dismantling massive criminal organizations, operating locally, statewide and internationally,” Sheriff Christianson said “His service to the department and the community will be missed.”
In 1982 Matt founded the narcotic canine program for the Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Department. He then helped to establish the California Canine Narcotic Association and served as its President.
Even after his retirement in 2000, Matt continued to be a canine trainer and was considered to be an expert in the field of canine narcotic detection. Matt continued to work as a reserve Deputy Sheriff for the Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Department until 2008. Funeral services for Gerald Matt are pending.
For information regarding this press release please contact Deputy Andrew Winter (209) 652-0325.
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