There are currently three K-9 teams, comprised each of a handler and a canine partner, in the K-9 Unit, each assigned to the Patrol Division. The breeds currently employed by the Decatur Police Department are the Belgian Malinois and Dutch Shepherd. All three teams are “full service” trained and are utilized regularly by both the patrol and investigations division. All K-9 teams are required to complete certification training through the Illinois State Police Training Board.
The K-9 units are mostly commonly called upon to assist the officers of the patrol division with the following calls for service.
- Vehicle Drug Searches
- Robberies in Progress
- Burglaries in Progress
- Vehicle Pursuits
- Foot Pursuits
- Suspicious Persons
- Warrant Services
- Lost Persons
The canines conduct numerous searches including; area searches, building searches, evidence searches, school locker searches and are highly proficient in tracking fleeing suspects.
