The mission of the El Dorado Police Department’s K-9 Unit is to enhance the Department’s efforts in crime prevention and detection, criminal apprehensions, and service to the community. It is the K-9 Unit’s duty to support field personnel and other law enforcement agencies in their efforts to detect and identify controlled substances and track suspects, missing persons, or potential evidence. K-9 Rico is a 4-year-old Belgium Malinois purchased from Cedar Creek Kennels in Monmouth, Illinois. Rico is a dual-purpose dog - meaning he can sniff controlled substances and perform patrol work. A patrol dog can search buildings, track suspects, locate evidence, apprehend fleeing criminals, and are trained in handler protection.
Grant funding and donations from local businesses were used to purchase Rico and required supplies and equipment. Each year, a donor continues to purchase food and supplies for Rico to ensure the police department maintains a K-9 Unit.
Monthly training is conducted to maintain training standards and proficiency throughout the year so the team can obtain annual certification. Rico and his handler are certified through the Kansas Police Dog Association (KPDA).