Texas DPS Graduates New K-9 Teams for Statewide Deployment

The latest class of narcotics and explosives detection K-9s and their handlers will enhance public safety across Texas.

Apr. 19, 2026 at 5:09pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a police K-9's paw print in the dirt, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conceptually representing the specialized capabilities of the DPS K-9 program.DPS' newly graduated K-9 teams will deploy across Texas, using their specialized detection skills to support law enforcement and protect communities.Austin Today

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has graduated nine new K-9 teams and four certified K-9 Tech Trainers, who will now deploy across the state to serve as a critical resource in enhancing public safety, supporting narcotics and explosives detection, tracking operations, and broader law enforcement efforts.

Why it matters

DPS' K-9 program is one of the nation's top programs, consisting of 101 personnel including 88 handlers. These highly trained teams play a vital role in DPS' mission to protect and serve the people of Texas, using their specialized skills to detect explosives, track fugitives, and uncover drugs, representing the department's commitment to keeping communities safe.

The details

The latest graduating class includes five narcotics detection teams trained to identify a wide range of controlled substances, as well as three explosives detection teams prepared to work in high-risk environments like schools and public events. The rigorous nine-week training program, led by experienced K-9 trainers, ensures the teams reach the highest standards of operational readiness.

  • The DPS K-9 graduation ceremony took place on April 19, 2026.

The players

Texas Highway Patrol Chief Bryan Rippee

The head of the Texas Highway Patrol, who oversees the DPS K-9 program.

Trooper Brady Koveleskie

A newly graduated narcotics detection handler paired with K-9 Cloak.

Trooper Adriana Loredo

A newly graduated explosives detection handler paired with K-9 Disco.

Corporal David Clayton

One of the newly certified DPS K-9 Tech Trainers.

Trooper Andrew Najera

One of the newly certified DPS K-9 Tech Trainers.

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What they’re saying

“Our K-9 teams are an integral part of DPS and play a vital role in our mission to protect and serve the people of Texas. Whether they are detecting explosives, tracking fugitives or uncovering drugs, these dogs and their handlers demonstrate extraordinary dedication and courage every day.”

— Texas Highway Patrol Chief Bryan Rippee

What’s next

The newly graduated K-9 teams will now deploy across Texas to support DPS' public safety efforts.

The takeaway

DPS' robust K-9 program, with its rigorous training and specialized detection capabilities, represents the department's unwavering commitment to enhancing community safety and disrupting criminal activity across the state.