In a significant development for law enforcement in Person County, K-9 Rocky, a 17-month-old Belgian Malinois, has successfully completed his certification with the Roxboro Police Department. Partnered with his handler, Officer Ward, Rocky demonstrated his skills in a rigorous evaluation conducted by the North Carolina Police Dog Association. The certification process, which took place last week, assessed Rocky’s abilities in scent detection and various patrol functions.
Following his certification on October 5, 2023, K-9 Rocky is now officially trained in detecting illegal substances, including marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamines, and heroin. Furthermore, the team has been certified in tracking missing or wanted persons, conducting evidence searches, building searches, handler protection, and obedience. The successful completion of this comprehensive training underscores the duo’s readiness to serve the community effectively.
Commendations and Community Engagement
The Chief of Police, David L. Hess, praised both Rocky and Officer Ward for their dedication and performance across multiple disciplines. He highlighted the rigorous nature of the training, which is certified through the North Carolina Community College system, known for its stringent audits and accreditation processes. “To earn recertification in all disciplines as a new canine team is a testament to Officer Ward and canine Rocky’s dedication to consistent training,” Hess stated.
As K-9 Rocky embarks on his career in law enforcement, he has made community engagement a priority. Alongside Officer Ward, Rocky has started visiting local schools in Roxboro and throughout Person County. These visits not only allow the team to interact with students and residents but also provide opportunities for demonstrations of Rocky’s skills, fostering a positive relationship between law enforcement and the community.
With their training complete and community outreach underway, K-9 Rocky and Officer Ward are set to make a significant impact in Person County. Their commitment to service and community interaction reflects a growing trend in law enforcement, where building trust and rapport with the public is increasingly recognized as essential for effective policing.
