Newton County dissolves sheriff’s K‑9 unit after review citing certification, handler vacancy and costs

Newton County Commissioners Court on a motion approved dissolving the county sheriff’s K‑9 program after the sheriff reported the unit was no longer fiscally or operationally viable.

Sheriff Burvey told the court the department had achieved only two narcotics arrests with the dog and that the canine handler was no longer with the office. The sheriff said the dog could not pass the certification required by the National Narcotics Protector standard and that the county would be exposed to liability if the animal remained in service without proper control. “This dog cannot pass the certification, so it's actually a liability for the county,” Sheriff Burvey said during the meeting.

The sheriff reported discussions with the trainer who had boarded the dog in Louisiana; the trainer indicated a potential resale value near $3,500 and offered not to charge boarding fees. The sheriff said returning the dog to the trainer or arranging a sale would be the most practical path and noted ongoing handler‑time, vet bills and food costs that factored into the recommendation.

Commissioner Powell moved to dissolve the K‑9 program; Commissioner Hobson seconded. The court approved the motion by voice vote. The sheriff said deputies would receive equipment in place of the K‑9 capability and that, if needed in future, the county could obtain certified dogs on short notice.

The court did not adopt alternate mitigation measures at the meeting. The sheriff was directed to coordinate disposition of the dog with the trainer and to track program expenses associated with the K‑9 while it was in county custody.