Hamilton County, TN - For the last few weeks, the HCSO’s K-9 Unit, in conjunction with Kasseburg Canine Training Center, has jointly conducted a 400-hour K-9 course of instruction for law enforcement personnel from as far away as Alaska. From September 15, 2024, through November 16, 2024, canines and their handlers underwent rigorous training and were certified in patrol operations, drug interdiction, and explosives detection.

Agencies in attendance included the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office, Wasilla Police Department (Alaska), Dade County Sheriff’s Office, Lookout Mountain Judicial Circuit Drug Task Force, University of Alabama Birmingham Police Department, and Providence Alaska Medical Center.

Congratulations to our own K-9 Deputy Ben Hayne and Maximus, who graduated from the course, and to K-9 Deputy Andrew Voss, who certified and trained his new partner, Bear. Both Maximus and Bear are dual-trained in drug detection and patrol operations.

The HCSO K-9 Unit currently consists of four teams consisting of a canine and a handler. K-9 Bear is replacing former K-9 Nero who retired earlier this year and Maximus is part of our agency’s K-9 expansion to meet the increasing law enforcement needs of Hamilton County and our region.

Lastly, please join us as we welcome Bear and Maximus and congratulate all the graduates of this year’s Law Enforcement Canine Training Course.