SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The California Highway Patrol has proudly welcomed four new K-9 teams to its force. These teams will enhance public safety and help in detecting illegal activities throughout the state.
The graduating class consists of three Belgian Malinois and one Dutch Shepherd. The CHP says that these dogs are trained to apprehend offenders and detect illegal drugs, playing a crucial role in officer and public safety.
“Police K-9s have proven their usefulness time and again in the situations officers face daily,” said CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee. “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,” Duryee said.
The new K-9 teams recently completed over 400 hours of intensive training over 11 weeks. They met the standards set by the California Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training, and were officially certified on Friday, November 7 at a ceremony held at the CHP Academy in West Sacramento.
Each K-9 handler, with seven to 15 years of experience, was carefully matched with their canine partner based on temperament, skill, and personality. This pairing process helped build strong bonds of trust and communication between handlers and their K-9 partners.
Following their graduation, the four new K-9 teams will be stationed at CHP Area offices across the Northern, Central, and Inland Divisions. They will assist with patrol duties and respond to calls for service in these regions.
With this new addition, CHP now has 53 K-9 teams statewide. This includes 37 Patrol and Narcotics Detection Canine teams, nine Patrol and Explosives Detection Canine teams, five Explosives Detection Canine teams, and two Narcotics Detection teams.
From January to September 2025, CHP K-9 teams have been instrumental in seizing nearly 7,000 pounds of methamphetamine, 5,000 pounds of cocaine, 250 pounds of heroin, 750 pounds of fentanyl, and 213 firearms.
The efforts highlight the K9’s essential role in combating drug trafficking and firearm-related crime.
To stay ready for diverse field situations, each K-9 team undergoes at least eight hours of ongoing training each week. This ensures they maintain peak performance and readiness.
The four new K9’s and their stationed areas are:
- K9 Jury (Inland Division)
- K9 Judge (Northern Division)
- K9 Jag (Central Division)
- K9 Oso (Central Division)
