New K9s Trained To Track Bombs, Drugs Join Sheriff's Office

GWINNETT COUNTY, GA — The Gwinnett County Sheriff’s Office welcomed two more K9 deputies Tuesday: K9 Dizla and K9 Tina. Along with their handlers, Deputy Patrick Newton and Deputy Walter Pollock, the two dogs have completed more than 230 hours of training to detect explosives.

The Gwinnett sheriff’s K9 unit now has four dual-purpose dogs trained in patrolling and narcotics as well as two bomb dogs, according to spokesperson Deputy Ashley Castiblanco. As part of their daily assignments, the bomb-sniffing K9s will conduct regular sweeps of the Gwinnett Justice and Administration Center in Lawrenceville, along with any other government building where their services are requested.

Dizla, Tina and the other K9 deputies will also work with the Executive Protection Unit in specialized details, and they’re available to neighboring law-enforcement agencies that need help, Castiblanco said.

In addition, Cpl. Jason Cottom received his advanced trainer’s certificate in narcotics, explosives and patrol, and Deputy Neil Butler received his basic trainer’s certification.

“We are committed to the preservation of life, community safety and protection of property,” said Gwinnett Sheriff Keybo Taylor. “Our strategic proactive safety measures such as these K9s promote a safer Gwinnett.”