The Medford Police Department introduced K9 Bodie, a two-year-old German Shorthaired Pointer, as the latest addition to its K9 unit. Bodie’s unique skillset and dedicated training make him a valuable asset to the department’s ongoing efforts in drug enforcement.
Bodie is a four-odor dog, specially trained to detect a range of controlled substances, including meth, heroin, cocaine, and the potent synthetic opioid fentanyl. His journey towards becoming a certified narcotics detection dog began in July 2022 when he embarked on a six-week training program at a police canine academy.
Under the guidance of his handler, MPD Officer Michael Tucker, Bodie successfully completed his training, earning certification through the Oregon Police Canine Association. One of the essential aspects of Bodie’s training is weekly proofing exercises, ensuring that he alerts Officer Tucker only to the specific drug odors he’s trained to detect.
MPD Sergeant Josh Reimer emphasized the critical role played by narcotic detection canines in drug enforcement, stating, “Their ability to detect controlled substances in hidden locations and masked with many creative techniques by traffickers provides investigators with the information needed to continue an investigation. Officer Tucker and his partner K9 Bodie are great additions to the MADGE Team.”
Police K9 units are instrumental in maintaining safety during potentially dangerous situations, protecting both their handlers and the community. MPD’s K9 program, which was established in May 1992, has evolved into a robust team of four highly skilled K9s. Two specialize in apprehension, ensuring the safe capture of suspects, while the other two, including Bodie, excel in drug detection.
All MPD K9 Officers are active members of the Oregon Police Canine Association and undergo rigorous annual certification processes.
Source: MPD
