The Round Lake Police Department introduced its newest four-legged officer, a one-year-old German Shepherd, which they say will help enhance their ability to protect residents.
The Round Lake Police Department on Tuesday introduced the canine, named Valor, a one-year-old German Shepherd who has officially joined the department’s patrol section.
He is assigned to Round Lake Police Officer Nelson Rodriguez.
Rodriguez and Valor earned their official certification after completing hundreds of hours of rigorous training and are now serving the Round Lake community, according to Round Lake Police Chief Dave Prus.
The team has received specialized training in patrol operations, narcotics detection, tracking missing persons and suspects, article searches and a variety of other critical law enforcement functions.
Their extensive initial certification program included eight weeks of classroom instruction and hands-on practical training, Prus said.
The curriculum covered deployment standards, canine behavior, legal updates, real-world scenarios, problem-solving techniques and field applications designed to prepare the team for the challenges they may encounter while serving the community.
Prus said the addition of Valor strengthens the department’s mission to public safety and enhances its ability to protect and serve the residents of Round Lake.
“Police canines are invaluable partners, providing specialized skills that help locate missing individuals, apprehend suspects, detect illegal narcotics, and support officers in a wide range of situations,” Prus said.
“Please join us in welcoming Valor to the Village of Round Lake Police Department and congratulating Officer Rodriguez and his K-9 partner on this significant accomplishment. We look forward to the positive impact this dedicated team will have as they begin serving and safeguarding our community,” the police chief said.
The new canine was officially sworn in at the Round Lake Village Board meeting on Monday evening.