BCSO Deputy Cooper, K9 Hondo are now certified

COLUMBUS, Ind. - The Bartholomew County Sheriff's Office (BCSO) has announced the official certification of Deputy Robert Cooper and his K-9 partner, Hondo.

After completing five weeks of training, the team earned certification through the National Detection and Patrol Canine Association. Hondo, a two-year-old Belgian Malinois mix, is now a fully certified patrol K-9 trained in narcotics detection, tracking, article searches, building searches, and suspect apprehension.    

Hondo was made possible through a generous private donation from Janet Buchanan, whose support helped bring this valuable resource to BCSO.  

Deputy Cooper brings a wealth of experience to his new role as a K-9 handler. He has served with the department for over seven years. Before his law enforcement career, he served 20 years in the United States Army, including four deployments: two to Iraq and two to Afghanistan.   

Sheriff Chris Lane said, "K-9 teams are one of the most valuable resources we have in law enforcement. They help us locate suspects, detect illegal narcotics, track missing individuals, and enhance the safety of both our deputies and the community. We're proud to have Deputy Cooper and Hondo serving the citizens of Bartholomew County."