The K-9 Unit provides support to the Patrol Division and specializes in criminal apprehension, evidence detection, locating lost persons, and assisting in potentially violent situations.

These teams complete a rigorous tryout process and attend a 480-hour Canine Academy. Once completing this process they must complete an annual certification through the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.

Each Patrol Canine Team is required to train regularly as part of their assigned duties and each Patrol Canine Team is cross-certified in narcotics detection.

Beyond their assigned duties, the canine teams provide popular demonstrations at our schools and at a variety of community and city events throughout the year. Their service to the community and their fellow officers has proven to be invaluable.

The Alachua Police Department is currently comprised of two Patrol Canine Teams. Pictured here is K-9 Thor and not pictured is his brother in crime, K-9 Simba.

Questions or concerns regarding the K-9 Unit? Contact Sergeant Justin Horn at (386) 462-1396 or by email at jhorn@alachuapd.org.