The Bradley County Sheriff’s Office has expanded its K-9 Unit with “Lucy”, who is a Belgium Malinois. Dep. Chris Shope, who is Lucy’s K9 handler, completed over 800 hours of training with her that incorporated numerous certifications.
A 16-week school hosted by Chattanooga Police Department’s K9-Unit, certified the three-year-old female canine in narcotics detection, fugitive apprehension, and officer protection. Additionally, Lucy also has been certified in evidence recovery, who is the only police canine in the area to complete this specialized certification. This canine also received further certifications from the United States Police Canine Association, Inc. and American Working Dogs Association which include Patrol Dog I, Tracking Dog/Patrol Dog II, and Narcotic Detector. Lucy was named Top Dog at U.S.P.C.A.’s certification event since she scored first overall when compared to other participating canines.
Currently, out of all the canines at the Bradley County Sheriff’s Office, Lucy holds the highest certification.
Lucy who is known for her speed by personnel at the Bradley County Sheriff’s Office has nicknamed Lucy, Pocket Rocket.
Sheriff Watson said, “Lucy is a great addition to this department who will be utilized in several capacities while assigned to the patrol division. Dep. Shope and Lucy have thoroughly completed highly distinguishable certifications that will be a great benefit to the Bradley County Sheriff’s Office. Each of the four patrol shifts at the Bradley County Sheriff’s Office has been assigned a canine unit which will assist deputies with their investigations.”