Organizational Structure
The San Andreas Department of Public Safety K-9 Division operates under a clearly defined command hierarchy to ensure accountability, operational consistency, and proper supervision of K-9 teams.| Rank / Title | Role & Responsibilities |
|---|---|
| Probationary K-9 Officer | Entry-level handler under direct supervision. May not patrol solo. May respond to K-9 calls only under active oversight by a certified K-9 Officer or Senior K-9 Officer. Focused on foundational obedience, search, and handling skills during training phase. Subject to performance evaluations before certification. |
| K-9 Officer | Fully certified handler authorized for solo patrols, deployments, and independent training sessions. May respond to K-9 requests from any law enforcement agency statewide. Responsible for daily K-9 care, operational readiness, and accurate documentation. |
| Senior K-9 Officer | Acting field supervisor for all K-9 operations. Oversees K-9 Officers and Probationary K-9 Officers on shift, ensures compliance with all operational policies, and provides on-scene mentorship and evaluation. Authorized to approve or deny deployments and training activities. |
| Patrol Lieutenant / Captain | Administrative and operational supervisor for K-9 units within their command zone. Manages shift-level oversight, ensures integration with patrol operations, and conducts after-action reviews for all K-9 deployments. Reports up the chain to the Chief or Sheriff. |
| Chief of Police / Sheriff (Oversight) | Exercises executive oversight of K-9 policy enforcement and operational adherence within their department. Responsible for ensuring agency compliance with State Police guidelines and the statewide K-9 Operating Manual. |
| Head of K-9 Personnel (State Police) | Primary administrative authority for all K-9 programs statewide. Manages daily operations, training records, certifications, disciplinary matters, and shift logs. Ensures consistent policy enforcement and acts as liaison between local agencies and the State Police. |
| Head of Division (Office of the Commissioner) | Final authority for all statewide K-9 operations. Responsible for strategic oversight, training funding, budget allocation, and reimbursement programs for local agencies. Approves or amends operational manuals and establishes statewide certification requirements. |