Criminal Interdiction Unit (K9)

The Criminal Interdiction Unit (Police K9) is also commanded by the Special Projects Captain. The unit consists of three (3) dual purpose police service dogs and the community policing officer(s).  The Interdiction Unit conducts both inter-city and highway interdiction of vehicles and persons responsible for transporting illegal narcotics or U.S. Currency into the City of Enid.  They also augment the Uniform Services Division with vehicle searches, building and open area searches, suspect and missing person’s tracks as well as suspect apprehension. 

There are currently three (3) dual purpose Police Service Dogs.  At present all of the unit’s dogs are male, German Shepherds or Belgian Malinois. These particular breeds of dogs are ideal for police duty due to their size, intelligence, agility and personality. Each dog is purchased when they are 18 to 24 months old with an expected career span of 8-10 years before being retired to their handler.  Each handler and dog must successfully complete an 8-10 week training course and are certified by the Council of Law Enforcement Education and Training as well as nationally certified by the National Police Canine Association to ensure that each team meets the standards of performance.  In addition to the traditional police functions provided by the Canine Officers they are also available for, school programs, social / civic functions and public demonstrations.