K-9 Unit

The Charleston Police Department utilizes 3 certified K-9 Officers to assist with patrol and the citizens of Charleston. Our multi-purpose K-9s are used to track suspects, search buildings, detect narcotics, and assist with apprehensions. Additionally, we employ single-purpose K-9s which are used for explosive device detection.   The unit is available at all times for call-out, but members are also assigned to evening and nighttime shifts to assist with patrol functions such as:

• The Aviation Authority
  
• ATF
• DEA
• FBI
• Isle of Palms Police Department
• IRS
• Mt. Pleasant Police Department
• Sullivan's Island Police Department
• The U.S. Coast Guard
• U.S. Marshall's Service
• The Charleston County Sheriff's Office

Skills & Training

The K-9 officers maintain a high level of proficiency and skills necessary to maintain their certification, they continue to attend various training classes and also train together as a unit once a week. This prepares the canine officer and officer handler for the many situations in which the dogs' abilities and keen senses are needed to better serve their fellow officers and citizens in the community.