NAHUNTA — Nahunta Police Department Officer Brandon Todd and K9 Quick from the CSU K-9 Unit successfully completed a rigorous 60hour International K-9 Certification course.
This prestigious training, hosted by the St. Marys Police Department, tested the team’s proficiency in narcotics-related searches to ensure they meet the highest standards in detecting and identifying illegal substances.
“This course is invaluable in strengthening our department’s ability to successfully prosecute drug-related offenses,” said Chief Brad Todd. “It serves as a demonstration to the courts that our K-9 team is highly proficient in narcotics detection and ensuring our officers are equipped with the necessary skills to keep drugs off our streets.”
The training course is known for its complexity and demanding nature, designed to challenge both the K-9 and handler to perform at an expert level. Typically, such specialized training would cost between $10,000 and $15,000.
However, thanks to strong networking and the department’s close working relationship with the St. Marys Police Department, the course was provided at no cost to Nahunta taxpayers.
The NPD launched its K-9 program 18 months ago and it has been a resounding success. K-9 Quick was generously donated to the department by the Georgia Department of Corrections and has proven to be an asset to the citizens of Nahunta.
Officer Brandon Todd and K-9 Quick during testing at the International K-9 Certification course. Special Photo
“When I approached City Manager Tom Wirth about implementing this program, he was supportive and gave us the green light to move forward,” said Chief Todd. “His leadership has been instrumental in equipping our officers with the tools they need to succeed. We’ve made great strides in the past 18 months, and we are committed to building the most professional police department possible.”
The department continues to work toward meeting state and national policing standards. Every officer is equipped with body-worn cameras, which are activated during all citizen interactions and while performing official duties.
The department is also focused on maintaining up-to-date policies and procedures, ensuring that officers operate under best practices.
“We have a mayor and city council who truly support our police department and work to ensure we are good stewards of taxpayer dollars,” said Wirth. “They are committed to making sure we have the necessary resources while remaining fiscally responsible.”
“Their support allows us to continue moving forward in our mission to protect and serve the citizens of our great town,” added the police chief.
