K-9 Program
The St. Louis Park Police Department currently has two K9 teams that assist with searches, tracking and explosive detection.
Each officer and K9 are required to complete a 12-week training program where they need to pass tests in obedience, tracking, explosive detection and apprehension. The K9 teams continue to train and recertify annually to ensure top performance and accountability.
Why use K9 officers
K9 officers are known for their incredible sense of smell and locating abilities. Trained police K9s' brains are estimated to be 50 times better at interpreting scent information than humans. As a locating tool, they can find evidence, explosives, drugs or people much more efficiently and effectively than police officers. K9 officers also help to resolve dangerous situations in a safer and more effective manner.
Requesting a K9 officer for an event
An important part of our K9 program is public education and engagement. K9 officer demonstrations will be offered for neighborhood, civic and community organizations on a regular basis.
Starting December 2023, you can request a K9 officer demonstration for your community group or event by emailing Sergeant Mark Kampa at mkampa@stlouisparkmn.gov.
K9 Maverick
In 2023, the St. Louis Park Police Department welcomed its first K9 officer, Maverick, to its team. Maverick is a German Shepherd from Slovakia and is partnered with Officer Matthew McNeely. His primary role is assisting with searches, tracking and explosives detection.
K9 Rolo
In 2025, the department welcomed its second K9 officer, Rolo. Rolo also came from Slovakia and is a Belgian Malinois, German Shepherd mix. He is partnered with Officer LeFevere, and like K9 Maverick, will be assisting with searches, tracking and explosive detection.