CANINE UNIT

The primary mission of the canine teams are to detect the presence of concealed narcotics. Canines can also be used to conduct building searches for offenders in hiding, assist in the arrest or prevent the escape of serious or violent offenders, protect law enforcement officers or others from death or serious injury, track suspects or locate lost or missing persons, and locate hidden instrumentalities or evidence of crime.

The canine's superior sense of smell, hearing and physical apprehension capabilities assist law enforcement personnel in the performance of their duties. The use of the canine requires adherence to procedures that properly control their use of force potential and direct their specialized capabilities into legally acceptable crime prevention and control activities.

AWARD K-9 HANDLER

The Award of K-9 Handler Certification is awarded by the Commanding Law Enforcement Officer of the presiding jurisdiction to a person who, while serving in any capacity in or with the office, distinguished himself or herself by successful negotiation of a Sheriff’s Office approved K-9 Handler Course and upon documented verification of graduating.