Lexington Police Department K9 Unit Showcases History and Operations at Roy H Martis Center

The Lexington Police Department's K9 Unit showcased its impressive capabilities and rich history during a recent episode of "Your Lex PD," filmed at the state-of-the-art Roy H. Martis K9 Center. Sergeant Rob Frazier, along with K9 officers Chaz Grider and Pat Murray, highlighted the unit's vital role in public safety and crime prevention.

Established in 1962, Lexington's K9 Unit is one of the oldest in the country. The current facility, opened in 2020, houses various breeds, including German Shepherds, Belgian Malinois, and even Labrador Retrievers, each trained for specific tasks such as patrol, narcotics detection, and bomb detection. The officers explained that most dogs are dual-purpose, capable of performing multiple roles, which enhances their effectiveness in the field.

The training process for both dogs and handlers is rigorous. Officers select dogs based on their environmental adaptability and strong sense of smell, essential traits for locating missing persons or detecting narcotics and explosives. The unit prides itself on in-house training, ensuring that each dog is well-prepared for its duties.

The K9 Unit not only serves Lexington but also assists neighboring agencies, showcasing its regional importance. The officers shared anecdotes of successful operations, emphasizing the efficiency and effectiveness of K9s in high-pressure situations.

The episode also paid tribute to Officer Roy H. Martis, after whom the center is named. Martis, a dedicated officer who tragically lost his life in the line of duty in 1985, is remembered for his contributions to the K9 Unit and the community.

As the K9 Unit continues to evolve, its commitment to public safety and community engagement remains steadfast, making it an invaluable asset to Lexington.