The Canine Operations Unit consists of five handlers and canines. The mission of the police canine team is to provide assistance in the prevention and detection of crime, the apprehension of criminal offenders, and such other duties as may be directed by the Department.
The prompt and proper utilization of a trained canine team has proven to be a valuable use of a unique law enforcement resource. When properly used a canine team greatly increases the degree of safety to citizens within a contained search area, enhances individual officer’s safety, significantly increases the likelihood of a suspect apprehension and dramatically reduces the amount of time necessary to conduct a search. Canine teams will be deployed with regard for the safety of the public and be adherent to department policy which defines the authority and responsibilities for the use of canine teams.
