NACOGDOCHES, TX (KTRE) -
There are three new members of
the Nacogdoches County Sheriff's Office tonight. They're all members of the
reinstated canine squad. One of the three is already on the street and taking a
bite out of crime.
Dasti couldn't get to work a
minute too soon. The Czech German Shepherd has been kenneled since December
waiting for humans to finish the necessary paper work.
A canine policy, adopted this
morning by Nacogdoches County Commissioners allows Sheriff Jason Bridges, a
prior canine handler, to introduce a canine unit to Nacogdoches County.
"We feel we have a very good
policy in place to reduce the liability for the county and also make sure the
policy, make sure everyone is line with what we're doing," Bridges said.
Dasti met some of his co-workers
today. Deputy John Wayne Valdez is Dasti's
handler.
"He will bring not only
experience, but a very strong work ethic," Valdez said. "Got a very good play
drive. He loves to work, and he's a very seasoned dog, being 7-1/2 years old.
Got a very sweet temperament."
Trained canines Miko, handled
by Deputy Rusty Allen, and Rhictor, handled, by Chief Deputy Steven Godfrey,
are also joining the department. All three canines followed their handlers from
other agencies into the Sheriff's Office.
"He's found several loads out
on the highway for DPS and our new chief deputy, a couple for the city," Valdez
said.
The dogs and their handlers
will still be made available to the agencies upon request.
"They are also going to be made
available to our school districts," Bridges said. "They request us to come in
and conduct searches. We'll provide that service to no cost to our schools as
well."
Bridges said a canine unit a
must have for any sheriff's department. The dog handler of 12 years is
confident 'man's best friend' will be a vital tool within the department.
While Dasti is already
on the streets, the other two dogs are awaiting certification. No one believes
they'll have any problem passing the exam.
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