The Bluffton Police Department first began maintaining a K-9 unit in the fall of 1990 with Officer Jim Mettler and Schultz, a German shepherd. In the spring of 1992, Jim and Schultz were joined by Officer Robert Morgan and Prince, another shepherd. Both dogs were utilized to their fullest and subsequently retired. In 1999 Officer Morgan was paired with Reno, a Belgian Malinois.

Bluffton Police Department K-9’s are certified through the North American Police Work-Dog Association. Training as a utility K-9 allows them to

• Search buildings for unwanted person
• Track lost children, adults or criminals
• Search areas for evidence related to crimes or hidden people
• Help apprehend fleeing criminals