A brand new class of narcotic detection K9s received their badges today- officially becoming part of the Washington State Patrol (WSP) Family.

On December 13, 2016, WSP Chief John Batiste commissioned Brakken, Chief, Molly, Moose, and Storm at a special ceremony in Olympia, Washington.

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The newest class of K9s with Chief Batiste (far right) and Assistant Chief Jeff Sass (far left).

These new four-legged officers underwent 220 hours of rigorous training at the WSP Academy in Shelton. The are highly skilled at detecting cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, and crack cocaine. Now that they’re graduated and commissioned, these new K9 teams will work throughout the state. In total, the Washington State Patrol has 10 narcotic detection teams. That’s in addition to the several dozen explosive detection K9s already out on patrol.

These K9 teams are essential to the safety and security of Washington State and its citizens.

Meet our new drug-sniffing dogs below!

Trooper Paul Woodside and Brakken
Assigned District: 6
Handler Experience: Trainer. Handler for 12 years. This is Trooper Woodside’s third working K9.
K9 Breed: Springer Spaniel.

Trooper Scott Genoway and Chief
Assigned District: 2
Handler Experience: Handler for 16 years. This is Trooper Genoway’s third working K9.
K9 Breed: Springer Labrador Retriever.

Trooper Aaron Norton and Moose
Assigned District: 4
Handler Experience: New K9 handler.
K9 Breed: Springer Spaniel.

Trooper KC Jones and Storm
Assigned District: 1
Handler Experience: New K9 handler.
K9 Breed: Labrador Retriever.

Trooper Michael Christensen and Molly
Assigned District: 3
Handler Experience: New K9 handler.
K9 Breed: Labrador Retriever mix.

 

For more information on these new K9s (including an interview from trainer Trooper Woodside and a special appearance from his partner, Brakken), click here: http://bit.ly/2hL6XlT!