DPS K-9 Division
The San Andreas Department of Public Safety (DPS) K-9 Division provides certified canine teams for detection, tracking, evidence recovery, authorized apprehension, and community demonstrations. Teams may support LSPD, SAST, and other agencies when lawfully requested and approved. K-9 deployments are specialized operations. A canine is neither a shortcut to legal search requirements nor a justification to use force. Handlers must establish lawful authority, maintain control, consider public and animal safety, and document deployment.Mission and priorities
- Protect life and support officer and public safety.
- Use certified handlers and appropriately qualified canine teams.
- Conduct lawful, controlled searches and apprehensions.
- Preserve evidence and accurate records, including searches with no contraband found.
- Maintain canine health, welfare, training, and operational readiness.
- Support interagency operations and public engagement.
This handbook supplements the DPS Full Use of Force Policy, Search and Seizure rules, evidence requirements, and general vehicle policies. Those controlling DPS policies govern in case of conflict. K-9 training and assessments belong in the Field Training tab; officer discipline is governed by the DPS Accountability Program (DAPS).
Handbook contents
- K-9.1 — Organization & Responsibilities: Personnel, supervision, handler limitations, and oversight.
- K-9.2 — Vehicle, Equipment & Welfare: Vehicle setup, cage controls, care, environmental safeguards, and withdrawal from duty.
- K-9.3 — Deployment, Searches & Force: Authorization, deployment procedures, detection indications, apprehension, and emergency response.
- K-9.4 — Documentation & Review: Logs, reporting, supervisory review, and audits.
- K-9.5 — Commands & Quick Reference: In-game commands, control expectations, and field checklist.
- K-9.6 — Certification & Training: Requirements, qualification pathway, and field training references.