K-9 Unit

The Kings County Sheriff's Office started its K9 program in December 1988 with Vacco, a German Shepherd Dog who was donated to the department by generous Kings County residents.

After the on-duty shooting death of our second K9, Nero, in March of 1995, our K9 program began expanding to what is now our current staffing level of five dogs. 

Each dog is assigned to a specific deputy handler and lives with the deputy at his home. The handler is responsible for his dog's training, care, grooming, and medical needs.

Besides apprehending criminals, the dogs protect their handler, other law enforcement officers and the residents of Kings County. The dogs are also trained to search for missing persons, locate evidence, and detect narcotics. The dogs' keen sense of hearing and smell make searches of buildings and other areas for criminals much more effective and safer for law enforcement personnel.

A police dog's career starts with a five week intensive training course.  The dog learns what his duties are through repetitive drill and positive reinforcement.  Upon completion of the training the dog is rated as a Police Service Dog.

For further information concerning the K9s, or to schedule a demonstration, call: