K-9 Unit

The Fargo Police Department has three dogs assigned to its K-9 unit.

The use of police canines helps keep officers out of danger and can even reduce the chance of serious injury to suspects in certain situations. Sometimes offenders try to hide from officers in places where a dog is much more efficient in finding them. Some of these offenders are very dangerous and may be armed. The use of the dogs helps reduce the danger for officers during apprehension efforts. The dogs may also allow officers to avoid using higher levels of force, including deadly force, to take offenders into custody.

K9BlueAngelIn the community

In addition to law enforcement duties, the K-9 units are very popular at public events, including DARE graduations and Boy Scout meetings. Introducing the police K-9s to the public is a great way to develop rapport, especially with children. In our growing city,the need for K-9 officers and their partners will only continue to increase. If you would like the K-9 officer to attend an event, leave a message for Officer Rick Nechiporenko at 298-6907, ext: 7027.

K-9s on duty

Fargos K-9 units are increasingly valuable in the battle against narcotics use. They are particularly helpful in locating easily concealed drugs such as methanphetamine. Besides assisting narcotics officers, the K-9 units are very effective in searching vehicles and schools, tracking suspects and performing a variety of other tasks.

K-9 training

The K-9 officers and their partners receive their initial training with the St. Paul or Minneapolis, Minnesota Police Canine Academies. The officer and dog spend about three months training and living in the Twin Cities before returning to work in Fargo. They then have to receive their certification each year through the United States Police Canine Association (USPCA) to to be eligible to work the streets. They also have to attend a five-week narcotics certification course. Nitro and Onyx are certified and have their narcotics certification.

See a video of a Criminal Apprehension .

See a video of a Narcotics Search .

You may need to download OuickTime, RealPlayer, or Windows Media Player to view the video clips.