In an effort to combat the rise in fentanyl use and overdoses in our community, the Medford Police K-9 team partnered with the California Narcotic Canine Association (CNCA) to safely train and certify K-9’s and handling officers in fentanyl detection.
Last month, MPD K-9 Nacho and K-9 Max completed the certification process becoming the first two police service dogs in the state to be certified by a police K-9 association to detect fentanyl.
“This innovative effort was led by K-9 Officer Havice. It’s thanks to his diligent work and extensive research that we were able to connect with CNCA and complete this impactful K-9 training,” said Lieutenant Mark Cromwell.
Medford Area Drug and Gang Enforcement (MADGE) has seen an extreme increase in powdered fentanyl which poses a significant risk of exposure to Officers and K-9’s. Safety measures are in place for all responders and service dogs which includes having Narcan on hand to deploy if necessary.
K-9 Max has already been deployed and successfully detected fentanyl – which led to the seizure of more than 6 ounces of powdered fentanyl.
The recent certification of K-9 Nacho and K-9 Max will help in MPD’s efforts to save lives and limit the amount of fentanyl in the community.
Source: MPD
