Indiana Department of Correction K9 Teams
Carlisle, Ind.- The Indiana Department of Correction's (IDOC) K9 Teams dedicate countless hours to helping maintain safety and security both behind the walls and in their local communities.
A special bond is formed between handlers and their K9's as they work to build trust. That bond is never more evident than when a K9 passes. Recently, Wabash Valley Correctional Facility (WVCF) held an End of Watch for Aggression K9 Heidi. When her handler Frank Busby was asked about his bond with Heidi he said, "My relationship with her was awesome. She was my best friend and at the same time knew when it was time to work."
WVCF's K9 Team currently has seven dogs, a Bloodhound, three German Shepherds and three Malonois. Each dog is trained in one of the following areas: trailing, narcotic detection, tobacco detection, aggression, cell phone detection and suboxone / explosive detection.
K9 Field Commander Mark Shroyer has been on K9 for over 19 years. When asked about the more difficult aspects of being on K9 he said, "The long hours spent on activations and being away from home for days at a time have been the biggest challenge."
K9 Team Leader and Handler Brent Barlow works with Aggression K9 Luna. He joined K9 in 2016, because of his love for dogs. Brent said, "I've always had an interest in working with dogs. I spent a lot of time gaining Luna's trust. Now she has absolute trust in me and I in her."
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K9 Handler Ian Henderson works with Narcotics K9 Bruno. He joined K9 in 2020 to gain valuable experience for advancement while doing something he loves. Ian said, "Bruno and I have a very strong and happy bond. Every day is a learning opportunity for us."
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K9 Handler Courtney Kinnaman works with Detection K9 Prince. Courtney joined K9 in 2018, because of her love for dogs and her desire to be a part of something more. She said, "I love my four-legged co-worker. He is stubborn and playful. We have learned together."
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