LCSO K-9 Teams Successfully Pass 2025 IPCA Certification

Three of the Laramie County Sheriff's Office's K-9 teams have successfully passed the 2025 International Police Canine Association Certification, the agency announced Tuesday.

Explosives Certification

Deputy Groendal and K-9 Arek | Deputy Wright and K-9 Blair - Laramie County Sheriff's Office

According to Public Information Officer Brandon Warner, K-9 Arek and K-9 Blair both earned certification in explosive odor detection, confirming their capabilities to safely and effectively detect a wide range of explosive threats in a variety of operational environments.

"Deputy Groendal was partnered with K9 Arek in March of 2025 and has shown rapid progress in meeting the high standards of certification," Warner said in a news release.

"Deputy Wright, assigned to K9 Blair, led the in-house training program for his team, working diligently to prepare for and achieve certification," he added.

Get our free mobile app

Narcotics Certification

Deputy Wiltanger and K-9 Dak - Laramie County Sheriff's Office

Warner says K-9 Dak earned certification in narcotics detection, including marijuana, heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine, and fentanyl.

"Deputy Wiltanger and K9 Dak are assigned to the LCSO Detention Center, where they primarily focus on the detection and deterrence of illegal drugs within our jail system — an essential role in maintaining safety and security inside the facility," he said.

Warner says the IPCA Certification is nationally recognized and requires rigorous testing in real-world conditions.

"These accomplishments highlight the Laramie County Sheriff’s Office’s ongoing commitment to operational excellence and public safety," he said.