Police Department Prevents Nevada Trooper From Adopting His Beloved K9 and People Are Outraged
A Nevada highway patrolman expresses a sense of betrayal from his department because his K9 partner, Nala, was taken away without the option to adopt her. K9 Nala, a 4-year-old Belgian Malinois specializing in narcotics detection, has been Officer Christopher Garcia's dedicated partner for the past two years, with Garcia being her first handler.
After Nala had a non-aggressive nipping incident , she was abruptly taken out of service by the Nevada Highway Patrol and put up for adoption. The catch was Officer Garcia was not allowed to adopt her.
According to KoloTV.com, Out of an abundance of caution, Garcia promptly reported the nipping incident. Originally, Garcia was told Nala would not be taken away from him.
“With the lack of severity of this, I never thought it was going to happen. But it was good to hear,” recalls Garcia.
Two weeks later the tone changed, and Garcia was informed that not only would Nala be taken out of service, but Nevada Highway Patrol would be placing her out for adoption. Garcia made countless pleas to adopt her but was denied. He was told that it was determined that the state felt there was a liability if they allowed Garcia to adopt her while he was still employed by the department.
The Nevada Highway Patrol released a statement that reads, in part, "Canine Nala’s welfare is a priority for the department, and she remains in good health and good hands. This matter is the subject of an internal administrative review, and the Department is unable to provide any further comment or details at this time.”
What Goes Into Training a Police K9
Training a police K9 involves a comprehensive process that focuses on developing the necessary skills and behaviors for effective law enforcement work, and every department has their own specific protocols and methods.
But usually, dogs are selected due to their agility and intelligence, and this can include breeds like German Shepherds, Belgian Malinois, or Dutch Shepherds. Dogs first need to learn basic obedience commands, like sit, stay and heel.
These amazing dogs need to develop a strong bond with their handler, and be able to pass physical strength and agility tests, and obey commands.
These dogs also undergo tracking, scent detection training, and apprehension training. They also have to engage in ongoing training to make sure they remember everything they have learned.
The news article above quoted Officer Garcia as saying, "She’s a huge daddy’s girl. I just love her." Let's hope Nala is back at home with her family soon. I'm not sure of the legalities behind this, but you would think Officer Garcia could sign something saying the department isn't liable if Nala should nip again.
Social media users have started a Change.org petition to bring Nala home.
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