K9 Unit Policy

Purpose

The K9 Unit provides specialized support for tracking suspects, conducting searches, and assisting with high-risk law enforcement operations. K9 units are intended to supplement patrol operations and should only be deployed when their capabilities provide a tactical advantage.

Certification Requirements

• Officers must possess a valid K9 Certification before deploying a department K9.

• K9 handlers are responsible for maintaining control of their K9 at all times and ensuring deployments comply with department policy.

Authorized Deployment

K9 units may be utilized for:

• Tracking fleeing suspects.

• Building, area, or wilderness searches.

• High-risk warrant services or raids.

• Assisting with felony apprehensions.

• Other incidents where a K9 provides a clear operational benefit.

K9s shall not be deployed for routine patrol calls or situations where a K9 serves no reasonable purpose.

Deployment Ratio

To ensure balanced scene management, the following ratio shall be observed whenever practical:

• 3 Regular Patrol Cruisers : 1 K9 Unit

Examples

• 3 Patrol Cruisers = 1 K9 Unit

• 6 Patrol Cruisers = Up to 2 K9 Units

Additional K9 units may be authorized by a Supervisor or High Command when operationally necessary.

Handler Responsibilities

K9 handlers shall:

• Announce K9 deployments whenever practical.

• Maintain positive control of their K9 at all times.

• Use the K9 only when justified by the situation and department policy.

• Recall the K9 immediately once the suspect is secured or compliance is achieved.

Restrictions

K9 handlers shall not:

• Deploy a K9 against compliant or secured individuals.

• Use a K9 as a substitute for proper use-of-force judgment.

• Exceed the authorized K9 ratio without supervisory approval.

• Deploy a K9 in situations where unnecessary injury to civilians, officers, or the suspect is likely.

Supervisor Authority

Supervisors may authorize additional K9 units, remove K9 units from an incident, or restrict K9 deployments based on the circumstances of the incident.

Failure to comply with this policy may result in suspension or removal of K9 certification and/or disciplinary action.