K-9 Unit

The Canine Unit is a great asset to law enforcement and an outstanding service mechanism to the citizens of Culpeper.

The purpose of a professional law enforcement canine is to reduce risks  to the deputy and to better enforce the laws of the community. The canine is a psychological deterrent to the lawbreaker, but at the same time the canine must develop a positive image in the public eye. Although the canine will never replace the deputy, the canine is a unique and sophisticated tool, which enhances law enforcement performance.

Law enforcement practices are constantly changing.

It’s necessary for departments to be progressive and proactive in order to make sure that comprehensive, quality law enforcement is always available. Statistics have proven that canine units offer an alternative to deadly force with less injuries and assaults on law enforcement officers.

Examples of situations in which canine teams might properly be used are:

• -building searches
• -tracking  suspects
• -searches in large, open areas
• -evidence searches
• -crowd control
• -lost persons
• -narcotic searches

Canine teams also participate in community events. The Canine Unit has given demonstrations to public and private schools, businesses and civic organizations.