The Blue Springs Police Department introduced its first K-9 Unit in September 2006. A grant from the Federal Goverment covered cost of training for the dog and handler.

Both the dog, Urich, a German Shepherd from the Czech Republic, and his handler, Officer Robert Unruh, have undergone rigorous training. As a result, Urich is able to locate suspects who run from the scene of a crime.

The K-9 unit also participates in building searches. In many cases, K-9s are able to go into places that are dangerous for the officer. Using their keen sense of smell, eyesight, and hearing, dogs are more effective in these roles than a human.

See photos of the K-9 Department