Nueces County K9 Teams Earn Certification in Fentanyl and Explosives Detection

Nueces County Sheriff’s Office

Nueces County, TEXAS - The Nueces County Sheriff’s Office announces new certifications within its K9 Unit that strengthen public safety efforts in the region.

K9 Hera, handled by Sgt. Rudy Gonzales, and K9 Grin, handled by Deputy Jose Soto, have been officially certified by the National Narcotic Detector Dog Association (NNDDA) in the detection of fentanyl. They are now the only NNDDA-certified fentanyl detection K9 teams in Nueces County, enhancing the Sheriff’s Office’s capability to detect and seize narcotics, support federal partners when needed, and safeguard the community.

Additionally, Deputy Tristan Borden and his K9 partner, Hevel, successfully completed their annual NNDDA certification in explosives detection, ensuring continued readiness to respond to critical incidents.

“These certifications demonstrate the dedication of our handlers and the essential role our K9 Unit plays in law enforcement operations,” the Sheriff’s Office stated. “Their work directly supports our mission of keeping Nueces County safe.”

Photo courtesy of Nueces County Sheriff’s Office