Delaware DOC shifts all K-9 units to focus on contraband detection

The redpoloyment of DOC K-9s will be complete by the end of next year.

The First State’s finest dogs are getting a new task.

The Delaware Department of Correction (DOC) plans to redeploy all canine units across the state exclusively for contraband detection.

The transition marks a significant change from the department’s longstanding use of patrol-focused K-9s for facility security and crowd control.

The shift is part of a broader initiative to improve safety and reduce the presence of illegal drugs, electronics, and other contraband within Delaware’s prison system.

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The change is already underway and will be implemented gradually over the next year.

“Our K-9 program transition to a universal contraband detection and mitigation mission aligns with national correctional K-9 best practices and better supports our broad goal of enhancing the safety, security, and wellness of all who live and work within Delaware’s correctional system,” said DOC Commissioner Terra Taylor.

Currently, 18 of the DOC’s 28 K-9 teams are assigned to patrol duties, while the remaining 10 focus on contraband detection.

Under the new policy, all future K-9s will be trained for detection work only.

Unlike patrol dogs, which are bred to be aggressive and are mainly used for deterrence and perimeter control, detection dogs are more social and can operate safely in high-traffic areas such as gatehouses, housing units, and even individual cells.

These dogs are trained to sniff out narcotics, electronic devices like cell phones, and other prohibited items.

DOC officials say the transition will mostly occur through natural attrition as patrol dogs retire.

In two recent cases, younger patrol dogs were exchanged for detection dogs.

All retired dogs are adopted into pre-screened homes, with families receiving financial support for ongoing care under legislation passed in 2023.

The department says this move is supported by a decade of investment in modern, intelligence-based security measures.

These include thousands of new surveillance cameras, improved information-sharing, verbal de-escalation training for staff, and the use of less-lethal tools for conflict resolution.

In addition to providing a safer and more flexible security presence, detection dogs also offer a psychological benefit: their presence alone serves as a powerful deterrent against smuggling efforts.

Officials hope that the expanded deployment of these dogs will help reduce overdoses and other risks associated with contraband inside facilities.

The move is expected to be fully completed by 2026.

“This transition is a clear-eyed response to the persistent threat of illegal and dangerous contraband to our correctional facilities,” Taylor said.