Canine (K-9) Unit

The mission of the K-9 Unit is to provide support for the Patrol and Investigations Bureaus. The K-9 Unit tests suitable dogs from several different countries to purchase German Shepherds, Belgian Malinois, Labrador Retrievers, and German Shorthaired Pointers. Once selected, the dogs train with their police officer handlers for several months before achieving certification as a law enforcement canine team. The dogs specialize in apprehending criminal suspects, searching buildings for hiding suspects, searching open areas for evidence, tracking suspects who have fled on foot, and providing security for the officers. Many of the dogs are also trained to detect illegal drugs or explosives

The Police Department utilizes Bloodhounds to conduct search and rescue operations. The Bloodhounds are used to find missing children, missing dementia patients, and can also be used to track fleeing criminal suspects. The K-9 Unit also performs public demonstrations for schools and civic organizations to showcase the dogs’ capabilities and to educate the public on their vital role in law enforcement.