Sheriff Aaron Mitchell announces his K-9 Deputies, Nick Sandel and Josiah Steinke, recently received certifications in Shreveport, Louisiana through the National Police Canine Association (NPCA). Sandel and Steinke have been training every Wednesday for the last several weeks with Shreveport PD and other agency K-9s from across Northwest Louisiana.

Sandel & K-9 “Kay” (pronounced “Kī”), a five year old male Dutch Shepherd, received Narcotics Certification in Marijuana, Cocaine and Methamphetamine. Sandel & “Kay” also received their Patrol 1 Certification in Criminal Apprehension and Human Detection. Sandel has been a Patrol Deputy for 5 years.

Steinke & K-9 “Tessa”, an eight year old female Belgian Malinois, received Narcotics Certification in Marijuana, Cocaine and Methamphetamine. Steinke has worked for the Sheriff’s Office for 3 years and is a member of the Sheriff’s Tactical Narcotics Team.

Sheriff Mitchell has proven again he is committed to having up-to-date, highly trained Deputies on his staff. Sheriff Mitchell said trained K-9s are crucial in the fight of illegal narcotics. Sheriff Mitchell commends Sandel and Steinke for their hard work, extra hours and time to the Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office and the citizens of Sabine Parish.