The Texas Department of Public Safety graduated eight new K-9 teams and two certified K-9 tech trainers on Friday, adding fresh resources to one of the nation’s leading canine programs for narcotics detection, explosives sweeps, and tracking operations statewide.

“Our K-9 teams are an integral part of DPS and play a vital role in our mission to protect and serve the people of Texas,” Texas Highway Patrol Chief Bryan Rippee said. “Whether they are detecting explosives, tracking fugitives, or uncovering drugs, these dogs and their handlers demonstrate extraordinary dedication and courage every day. Their work not only enhances our operational capabilities but also represents the very best of our commitment to keeping Texas safe.”

DPS now fields 101 K-9 personnel, including 88 handlers, with 59 narcotics-detection dogs, 15 explosives-detection dogs, and 14 tracking dogs. The program’s breeds include German Shepherds, Dutch Shepherds, Belgian Malinois, Labrador Retrievers, and a Vizsla.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE DALLAS EXPRESS APP

Each of the new teams completed a nine-week course, including six weeks of dedicated pre-training for the dogs alone, led by veteran instructors focused on behavior, tactics, and high-pressure performance.

The class produced five narcotics detection teams trained to find methamphetamine, heroin, cocaine, and marijuana in vehicles, packages, and large investigations. It also added three explosives-detection teams capable of identifying commercial, military, and homemade devices at schools, public events, and government sites.

Two handlers earned certification as K-9 tech trainers after completing 250 credit hours as TCOLE-approved instructors. They will oversee future pre-training, daily instruction, evaluations, and training-aid accountability.

The new teams are:

  • Trooper Brady Koveleskie & K-9 Cloak: Narcotics Detection
  • Trooper Quinten Baker & K-9 Magik: Narcotics Detection
  • Trooper Quinton Hall & K-9 Dori: Narcotics Detection
  • Trooper Roberto Flores & K-9 Tyson: Narcotics Detection
  • Trooper Victoria Escalon & K-9 Zen: Narcotics Detection
  • Trooper Adriana Loredo & K-9 Disco: Explosives Detection
  • Trooper Chase Grillet & K-9 Magnum: Explosives Detection
  • Trooper James McConnaughay & K-9 Xena: Explosives Detection

K-9 Tech Trainers:

    • Corporal David Clayton
    • Trooper Andrew Najera