The California Highway Patrol added four new K-9 teams to its ranks Friday to enhance public safety and sniff out crime across the state.
The four K-9s are all trained to apprehend offenders, detect illegal drugs and protect officers and the public, CHP said. The graduating class includes three Belgian Malinois, Judge, Jag and Oso, and one Dutch Shepherd, Jury.
The K-9 teams completed more than 400 hours of intensive training over the past 11 weeks. Each K-9 handler in an experienced CHP officer who boasts seven to 15 years of service. The handlers were all paired with their K-9 partners based on temperament, skill and personality, CHP said.
“Police K-9s have proven their usefulness time and again in the situations officers face daily. They are hardworking, loyal partners who wake up each day ready to serve. Each of these specialized teams has dedicated time and effort to succeed on the streets, and we are excited to welcome them to our team,” CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee.
Following their graduation, the K-9 teams will assist with service in the Northern, Central and Inland CHP Divisions. Including the second class of 2025, CHP now has 53 K-9 teams across California.
From January through September 2025, CHP K-9 teams seized nearly 7,000 pounds of methamphetamine, 5,000 pounds of cocaine, 250 pounds of heroin, 750 pounds of fentanyl and 213 firearms, according to CHP.
Source: NBC Los Angeles
Be First to Comment