Karma newest canine deputy in Dubois County

Meet Karma.

She’s a 2-year-old black German shepherd trained in narcotics detection including marijuana, methamphetamine, cocaine and heroin. She joined Deputy Jesus Monarrez about four weeks ago as the newest deputy in Dubois County after the pair completed training.

Karma was trained by Lucy Newton and Randy Hare of Alpha K-9 Training Center for Dogs and People. Hare and Newton specialize in training police dogs and the handlers who will partner with the dogs.

Karma and Deputy Monarrez have been patrolling together for about a month now and have already assisted in several drug arrests.

Besides narcotics detection, the department would like to have Karma trained as a tracking dog. “Hopefully, we will complete that training next spring,” Monarrez said.

Karma and Monarrez join Judge, a labrador retriever trained in drug detection and tracking, and Deputy Brad Kendall as the department’s second canine officer team.

The two dogs, training and equipment — cages for police vehicles and other essentials — were paid for by over $25,000 in local donations. An anonymous donor is paying for the dogs’ food and Hasenour Veterinary Clinic is donating vet services.

Monarrez stated he was thankful for the generosity from the citizens, businesses, and organizations in Dubois County whose contributions allowed the sheriff’s department to pay for Karma’s training, food, and housing.

“Without the community’s donations and support, Karma and I would not have become a team, Deputy Monarrez said. “We will strive and work diligently to keep this a safe and wonderful community.”

The county now has 24-hour access to canine support through the sheriff’s department. Jasper Police Department and Indiana State Police also have canine officer teams.