The function of the canine (K9) team is to enhance the Florence Police Department’s capabilities in the areas of tracking/searches, narcotic investigations, criminal apprehension and evidence searches. The K9 team is comprised of multiple officers (handlers) and their canine partners. The handler and canine are trained and certified as a team. The team trains weekly and participates in a yearly re-certification training.
The K9 team also conducts public demonstrations for various events in the City including the Citizens Police Academy. These public contacts help the citizens of Florence understand the abilities and purpose of these four-legged officers. Currently the department has three certified K9's.
Magnum
Magnum is a German Shepherd who joined the Police Department in November of 2020. He is trained and certified in tracking, obedience, article finds and narcotic detection. Magnum has successfully assisted the department with tracking a murder suspect and an attempted murder suspect along with several narcotic seizures. Magnum loves to play tug of war with his rubber Kong and rope.
Fun Fact: Magnum was born in Hungary and imported to Holland before coming to America so he has an official passport and obeys Dutch commands.
Ripley
Ripley is a Chesapeake Bay Retriever who has been with the Police Department since July of 2022. Ripley is trained and certified in obedience, tracking, substance detection, and article searches. Ripley is full of energy and enjoys working. She loves chasing after the Kong ball.
Fun Fact: When Ripley gets very excited she jumps.
Shelby
Shelby is a German Shepherd that is almost a year and a half old. She is certified in tracking, three categories of substance detection, and article detection. Shelby is full of energy and loves getting put to work. Shelby has already been successful in locating several articles in her short time with the department.
Fun Fact: Shelby's favorite thing to do is to play tug with her new ball.
