The Orange City Police Department has officially introduced the newest member of its team — K-9 Rome.
Rome is a year-and-a-half-old Belgian Malinois who will serve as a dual-purpose police K-9 alongside Officer Trevor Gries. He is fully certified in narcotics detection, criminal apprehension, and tracking.
Gries says Rome distinguished himself early in the training process with his strong work ethic and intelligence.
“What stood out about Rome through the training process was his drive to work and how intelligent he was in terms of how quickly he learned what I was asking of him,” Gries said.
As a dual-purpose K-9, Rome plays a key role in improving officer safety and operational effectiveness. Gries says Rome’s training allows officers to handle high-risk situations more safely.
“Rome being a dual-purpose K-9 will help officers be safer on the streets due to his high awareness and training in terms of apprehending and locating suspects,” Gries said. “He helps keep officers out of dangerous situations more effectively.”
The partnership between Rome and his handler has been built through extensive time together, both before and during training.
“Our bond developed before training as I spent every waking minute with him beforehand,” Gries said. “It has been a long process which has had its ups and downs, but now we have a very solid bond.”
Community members may see Rome assisting officers during vehicle searches for narcotics or during suspect searches and apprehensions. Gries says Rome’s abilities allow him to help in ways officers cannot.
“Rome is more effective than officers due to his sense of smell and high awareness,” he said. “Additionally, Rome can go into places where officers can’t to help get situations under control.”
When he’s not on duty, Gries says Rome enjoys a much more relaxed routine.
“Rome off duty is just like any other dog,” he said. “He likes to go on walks and play with his Kong when he is not working.”
As Rome begins active service in Orange City, Gries says he’s looking forward to seeing the K-9 make a difference.
“I am most excited to see him be able to help the community and apprehend criminals,” Gries said.
