With this graduating class, the second of 2025, the CHP now deploys 53 K-9 teams statewide, including 37 Patrol and Narcotics Detection Canine teams, nine Patrol and Explosives Detection Canine teams, five Explosives Detection Canine teams and two Narcotics Detection teams. Photo courtesy of California Highway Patrol

WEST SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) - The California Highway Patrol (CHP) has added four new K-9 teams to its ranks, advancing the department’s mission to provide safety, service and security to the people of California.

The graduating class includes three Belgian Malinois and one Dutch Shepherd. Each dog has been trained to apprehend offenders, detect illegal drugs and enhance officer and public safety.

“Police K-9s have proven their usefulness time and again in the situations officers face daily,” said CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee. “They are hardworking, loyal partners who wake up each day ready to serve. Each of these specialized teams has dedicated time and effort to succeed on the streets, and we are excited to welcome them to our team.”

Pictured is Officer Michael Galvez and K-9 Oso of the Central Division. Photo courtesy of California Highway Patrol

Over the past 11 weeks, the four K-9 teams completed more than 400 hours of intensive training that met the standards set by the California Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training. The K-9s, trained in criminal apprehension and narcotics detection, received their official certification Nov. 7 during a graduation ceremony at the CHP Academy in West Sacramento.

Each K-9 handler is an experienced CHP officer with seven to 15 years of service. Handlers were carefully paired with their canine partners based on temperament, skill and personality. During training, the teams built strong bonds of trust and communication that will support them throughout their careers.

Pictured is Officer Christopher Keeler and K-9 Jag of the Central Division. Photo courtesy of California Highway Patrol

Following graduation, the new K-9 teams will report to their assigned CHP Area offices to assist with patrol duties and respond to calls for service in the Northern, Central and Inland divisions.

With this graduating class, the second of 2025, the CHP now deploys 53 K-9 teams statewide, including 37 Patrol and Narcotics Detection Canine teams, nine Patrol and Explosives Detection Canine teams, five Explosives Detection Canine teams and two Narcotics Detection teams.

From January through September 2025, CHP K-9 teams seized nearly 7,000 pounds of methamphetamine, 5,000 pounds of cocaine, 250 pounds of heroin, 750 pounds of fentanyl and 213 firearms, underscoring their critical role in combating drug trafficking and firearm-related crime.

Pictured is Officer Christopher Partlow and K-9 Judge of the Northern Division. Photo courtesy of California Highway Patrol

To maintain peak performance, each team completes at least eight hours of ongoing training each week to ensure readiness for the diverse situations they encounter in the field.

The new K-9 teams include Officer Joshua Walker and K-9 Jury of the Inland Division, Officer Christopher Partlow and K-9 Judge of the Northern Division, Officer Christopher Keeler and K-9 Jag of the Central Division, and Officer Michael Galvez and K-9 Oso of the Central Division.

Pictured is Officer Joshua Walker and K-9 Jury of the Inland Division. Photo courtesy of California Highway Patrol

Learn more about becoming a CHP K-9 handler or explore other career opportunities at www.CHPMadeForMore.com. The mission of the California Highway Patrol is to provide the highest level of safety, service and security to the people of California.