The Tempe Police Department relies on the use of canines to boost effectiveness of patrol.  The K-9 Unit is responsible for the location and apprehension of felony suspects.  The Unit also uses canines for the detection of narcotics and explosives.

The K-9 Unit Officers are selected through a series of tests and are required to have been patrol officers for a minimum of two years.  The training with the animals is conducted by the Tempe Police Department Master Trainer(s) who specialize in their respective areas.  Additional training is provided on a state level for K-9 Officers.  Breeders who specialize in law enforcement animals supply the K-9's for the department.

Master K-9 Trainer Officer Jefferies with "Afra"

K-9 Officer Ribotta with "Jaeger"

K-9 Officer McKinney with "Tio"

K-9 Unit Training...