K-9 Joe joined the Kent County Sheriff Department in March, 2006, and was assigned to the Kent Area Narcotics Enforcement Team.  He was certified as a Narcotics Detection K-9 with the United States Police Canine Association (USPCA) and the National Association of Professional Canine Handlers (NAPCH). 

 

During his career K-9 Joe has won four trophies in narcotics detection competition, and a national Criminalistic Excellence Award for detector dog case of the quarter.  K-9 Joe currently holds a West Michigan record for the largest recorded heroin seizure (1.5 kilograms), and a State of Michigan record for the largest recorded marijuana seizure (12,000 pounds).  He has also brought it over $280,000 in forfeiture during his career. 

 

At nine years of age, K-9 Joe transitioned from a single purpose Narcotics Detection K-9 to a dual purpose Patrol K-9.  Shortly after certifying in tracking, K-9 Joe tracked a bank robber to his house resulting in an apprehension by detectives with a full confession. 

 

K-9 Joe went to the Road Patrol in January, 2014 where he finished his outstanding career.