Police K9- Meet Zona
Those who attended yesterday’s National Night Out events in Hallettsville may have had the opportunity to meet the police department’s newest recruit, a feisty little lady who goes by the name of Zona.
She’s half—the far better looking half, if you ask me—of Hallettsville’s all new Police K-9 unit, which consists of this gorgeous German Shepherd who is specially trained in several police K-9 functions, including narcotics detection.
Together with partner, Officer Harrison Yancey, Zona recently completed the first part of their training at an undisclosed location here in Texas.
When we say recently, we mean the two just got back to town about a week ago now. As per the pair’s strict training regimen and initial acclimation period, they will likely not be seen much out in public these first few weeks, the chief told members of city council last month when he updated them on the new unit’s training progress.
Depending on how that acclimation period is coming along will decide if and when they are able to keep with their plans for Tuesday’s National Night Out, that time once a year when law enforcement personnel nationwide make a concerted effort to better engage with those who live in the communities that they call home. Everything will largely depend on how well Zona is taking to her new environment here in Hallettsville.
On that note, for Zona’s safety and well-being, Officer Yancey’s, and the public’s in general, the department kindly asks that everyone keep their hands to themselves whenever they’re around Zona and her handler. In other words, you can look all you like, but don’t touch the K9 Team.
While drug detection will be Zona’s primary function to start, she’s definitely no lady to be trifled with either. She also happens to be trained in suspect apprehensions, and from what we hear, she’s got a real nose for the job.
Not only that, but both she and Officer Yancey also plan to enroll in the rigorous search and rescue training program just as soon as a spot opens for them.
"We are thrilled to welcome Zona andOfficer Yancey to our team,” Hallettsville Police Chief Randal Schlauch said in departmental release sent out last week.
“This program is a significant step forward in our efforts to ensure the safety and security of Hallettsville,” he said. “Our new K9 unit will enhance our capabilities and strengthen our connection with the community.”
The new K9 program is aimed at bolstering public safety and enhancing community engagement, Schlauch went on to say in his news release. “This addition to our team underscores our commitment to using innovative methods to keep our community safe,” he added.
The K9 program was made possible through a substantial investment made by a Project Neighborhood Grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Justice. The Hallettsville Police Department also wanted to extend its gratitude to all those who contributed to this unique initiative.
In wrapping up his announcement on the new K-9 unit, Schlauch offered a few tidbits about the local police department as well. HPD is “dedicated to protecting and serving the community with integrity, professionalism and respect.”
“We are committed to enhancing the quality of life for all residents through proactive policing, community engagement, and innovative solutions to public safety challenges,” the chief wrote.
And be sure to follow the department’s Facebook page watch for updates as Zona and Officer Yancey embark on this exciting journey together to keep Hallettsville safe!