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K9 Joins Dade City Police Force

TykeandKevinBurns|DadeCityPolice|KOfficer

Tyke will be will be formally introduced to residents at Tuesday’s (June 13) City Commission meeting.

DADE CITY – This city’s Police Department has a new officer: Tyke, a 15-month old German shepherd.

Tyke hit the streets Monday (June 5) with his partner, Officer Kevin Burns, a 12 1/2-year veteran of the Dade City Police Department.

Burns and Tyke recently completed a demanding 16-week training course in patrol procedures and tracking sponsored by the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office. The team will be an integral part of the police department and the community. They will be a “force multiplier,” capable of searching buildings and tracking suspects, missing children and vulnerable adults.

“Because this dog was purchased through the generosity of the community, I want him to be much more visible to everyday citizens than teams in the past,” Dade City police Chief Ray Velboom said. “He will not only be used on patrol, but will be seen interacting downtown and in the schools.”

Donations were received from a number of service organizations, including the Rotary and Kiwanis clubs, as well as many private donors. The nonprofit Dade City Police Foundation coordinated the purchase of the dog and related equipment.

The two will be formally introduced to the public at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday (June 13) at the City Commission. The public is invited to attend.

For information about the Dade City police, go to dadecitypolice.com.

Photo of Tyke and Officer Kevin Burns courtesy of the Dade City Police Department.

Dade City Police | K9 Officer | Public Safety | Crime | Tampa Bay News | TB Reporter

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