Redlands K9 Jake clinches top spot in explosive detection contest
Local police dog and handler outperform 60 teams nationwide, showcasing skills honed through rigorous training and community support
Redlands Police Department's K9 Jake and Officer Mazi Shahabi have taken the top spot in the Explosive Detection Vehicle Search Competition at the Riverside Sheriff Department's Annual K9 Trial and Public Safety Fair.
The pair beat out about 60 other dog teams from around the country in the two-day event. The competition puts various skills to the test, including finding drugs, locating evidence, protection, agility, and following commands.
Jake, who joined the Redlands Police Department in 2020, is trained in both explosive detection and apprehension. Local community members had the honor of choosing his name.
Officer Shahabi, who's been Jake's handler and partner for four years, describes the K9 as focused and reliable. “I trust him. He knows how to listen, and I direct him in the things he has been trained to do. He knows I will never put him in a position where he might fail or get hurt,” shares Shahabi.
“He also has an on-off button. He knows how to work hard, yet he can fill the role of a beloved pet and friend too.”
Commander Wil Goff is impressed with their achievement. "We all know that Mazi does about 100 different things for our department every week. This is a huge accomplishment!" he said.
Jake's work goes beyond competition. He plays a key role in keeping Redlands citizens safe, often working early mornings to check areas before major events.
The K9 program gets support from local businesses and organizations. Tom & Hound, a pet store in downtown Redlands, gives Jake high-quality food every two weeks.
“We are so happy to donate to our Redlands K9’s. We are grateful for their expertise, support, and protection for our citizens,” says Susan Marie. “It is our great honor to be able to bring a bit of our expertise in the form of providing high quality, nutritious food for them.”
The Redlands Police Community Foundation (RPCF) also backs the K9 program. They raise money for vehicles, vet bills, equipment, and training.
Judy Cannon, who heads up the RPCF, adds: "Jake is an amazing addition to the Redlands Police Department. He adds a dimension to their operations that a human officer could not. He and Officer Shahabi are a winning team in more ways than one!”
Those closest to Jake are grateful for the many generous donors who make it possible to keep the program going.
