After several years without the assistance of a canine unit, the Department was pleased to have a new canine team begin operations during 2007.  Officer Josh Jackson and his canine partner "Brit" began servicing our community on Dec. 22nd, 2007.  Brit is a 7 year old German Shepherd, from Czechoslovakia.  Brit is a dual purpose canine meaning that he can be used for both patrol duties and narcotics detection.  In the patrol role Brit can be utilized for suspect apprehension, searching areas and buildings for hiding suspects, and for master protection.  A police canine is also a valuable tool for law enforcement as it often serves as a force multiplier.  This means that the presence of the canine can often lessen the number of officers required at a scene.  The canine's superior senses also allow it to work faster than its human partners when searching areas or building thus increasing the efficiency of the police department. 

As a narcotic detection canine Brit is used to detect the presence of the odor of an illegal narcotic substance.  Brit is trained for the detection of Cocaine, Heroin, Methamphetamine and Marijuana.  In the short time that Brit and Officer Jackson have been working together they have successfully located narcotics on several occasions.  Canines are an excellent tool for law enforcement in that they save countless hours in searching for both persons and narcotics. 

If you are interested in more information regarding the Yuba City Police Department Canine Unit feel free to contact Officer Josh Jackson or Lt. Thomas Tappe at 530-822-4660.