THATCHER — The newest member of the Thatcher Police Department was introduced to the Town Council on Monday.
T-Max, a 2-year-old Belgian malinois is the department’s newest K9 officer, partnered with Sgt. Maner.
“He’s certified patrol and narcotics, all four odors — fentanyl, heroin, meth and cocaine,” said Thatcher Police Chief Glen Orr. “Patrol is your bite work; basically your attack dog
The dog was originally slated to serve the French military, but the supplier was able to bring him to the United States and get him certified through the National Police Academy Association. He is from the same kennel as Apollo, the department’s recently retired K9 officer.
Orr said the dog has one more week of training and then he will be out on patrol.
Maner said despite the dog coming from France, all commands are in Dutch or German.
– David Bell Photo/Gila Valley Central
