While attempting to better combat the rise of illegal drug activity during the late 80s and early 90s, the Jackson Police Department recognized the success other departments were having with drug detection dogs. In 1990 the department purchased its first police dog a single purpose drug detection dog. The dog, a mixed breed hound affectionately named “Boney” was assigned to Inv. Mark Smith as his handler. The pair in turn was responsible for the seizure of nearly a million dollars in cash, vehicles, and narcotics over his nine year career. This success helped prove the need for police dogs and the expansion of the police service dog program.
The early 2000's showed an increase in violent crime as well as domestic and foreign terrorism. To reflect this change we tailored the training and type of our police dogs to match. Along with increasing the number of dogs the we changed from single purpose drug dogs to what we call dual purpose patrol dogs. These dogs not only detect drugs/explosives but can track, locate and physically apprehend violent suspects. During this period of time the dog/handler teams were organized into a standalone unit designated the K-9 Unit.
Since its inception the unit has been responsible for apprehending numerous violent criminals who may otherwise have not been caught as quickly or with minimal violence. Members of the unit have also received awards and been recognized locally and nationally for excellence in their field.

The units primary role is to support police operations by assisting the other units/divisions in the department, federal, state, and surrounding agencies with the use of our police service dogs. Secondary to this role we also make ourselves available to assist the other units/divisions in any situation where our unique training, equipment or just the additional personnel would be of assistance. Lastly due to the interest the police dogs garner within the community they are an ideal tool for use in educating the public about police work through demonstrations and community presentations.

Each dual purpose patrol dog is either trained in drug or explosive detection. These scents include:
Drug odors
• Marijuana
• Cocaine
• Heroin
• Methamphetamine

Explosives
• over 32 different explosive compounds

Patrol functions
• Tracking
• Building clearing
• Fleeing violent suspects
• Evidence recovery