K-9
The Fredericksburg Police Department canine program consists of three teams trained in patrol utility functions including obedience, tracking/trailing, article searches, area searches, building searches, apprehension, and narcotics detection. The team combines a human's intelligence with a canine's superior scenting abilities to locate people and evidence while assisting with the seizure of illegal drugs. They regularly train and certify each year through the Virginia Police Canine Association.
Officer Murphy and K9 Raider
Officer Murphy has four years of experience in law enforcement. Officer Murphy started his professional career by completing four years in the United States Marine Corps. The Fredericksburg Police Department hired Officer Murphy in December 2018. After working in patrol for three years, he decided to transition into a specialty and became a canine handler. In 2022, Officer Murphy was partnered with K9 Raider and graduated from canine school in July of the same year. K9 Raider originates from Hungary. He is a German Shepard + Belgian Malinois mix. When not training, seeking out illicit drugs, locating evidence, or tracking bad guys, K9 Raider enjoys spending time with Ofc. Murphy chasing balls, finding sticks to chew, or barking at wildlife.
Officer Rusk and K9 Rudi
Officer Rusk has five years of experience in law enforcement. Officer Rusk started his professional career by completing eight years in the United States Marine Corps. Officer Rusk then transitioned to the United States National Guard, serving in a reserve capacity. The Fredericksburg Police Department hired Officer Rusk in March 2018. After working in patrol for four years, he transitioned his talents and became a canine handler. In 2022, Officer Rusk was partnered with K9 Rudi and graduated from canine school in December of the same year. K9 Rudi originates from Poland. When not working hard on patrol, K9 Raider enjoys quiet moments outside while watching over his handler, who enjoys spending time with his wife and two children.
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Ryan Merrell
Lieutenant, Patrol DivisionPhone: 540-654-5930