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Stockton Police K-9 Unit History

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In 1959, the Stockton Police Department was the first agency on the West Coast to begin using Police service dogs.  The initial unit consisted of four handler/K-9 teams:  Richard Whiteman, Robert Knudsen, Robert Ross, and Jerry Tucker. The unit soon grew to 18 teams, which included former Chief of Police Julio Cecchetti. Since 1959, the Stockton Police K-9 Unit has been responsible for hundreds of arrests and are a valuable asset to the Department. 

 

Today's K-9 Unit

The Unit maintains a high level of proficiency with their K-9 teams because of the extensive training they undergo.  Each handler/K-9 team must complete many hours of training before being certified by a Departmental trainer to enter service.  The training consists of scenarios they might encounter while in service as well as obedience, agility, search, protection, and narcotics works.  The K-9s also train in article searches and tracking.  Once certified, each team continues to receive additional training both on- and off-duty.  Each team must also pass a yearly certification by the State of California Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) Commission.

The Unit is very proud of their accomplishments which include numerous achievements and awards in K-9 competitions, even being featured once in a motion picture involving their help in the capture of a wanted criminal.  The main goal of the K-9 Unit is its continual commitment to be ready at any time to serve the citizens of the city of Stockton.

The K-9 Unit participates in many civic events such as providing K-9 demonstrations for groups, organizations, and schools.  They also hold an annual K-9 Competition where the public can watch K-9 teams from other agencies compete against each other. 

The K-9 Unit is currently made up of one Lieutenant, one Sergeant, and 12 handlers.  The dogs utilized by the Unit consist of German and Dutch Shepherds, Belgium Malinois, and Rottweiler.  These breeds are chosen due to their proven working heritage and success in military and law enforcement circles.  The K-9 Unit is also a proud member of the Western States Police Canine Association.  Their mission is to promote professionalism and safety for all working police K-9 Teams.

Required Attributes in Becoming a Police K-9

• The K-9 must master the obedience commands, usually associated with a dog awarded a companion dog degree by the AKC.

• Unless ordered, or under certain Officer safety-type situations, the K-9 is never aggressive toward any human being.

• He will will himself upon command and prepare to attack, or protect his handler, but will hold himself in check until otherwise commanded.

• The K-9 will:

  • Relax his readiness when commanded to do so.
  • Attack without hesitation upon command.
  • Attack with maximum effort, often without regard
    for his own safety.
  • Instantly cease the attack when commanded.
  • Protect his handler, to the death, if need be.