Week 5 Area Searches

Types of K-9 Searches

• Area Search – Dog searches a large open area for a subject.

  • Directed Search (Off Line) – Handler directs the dog to specific locations while off leash.

  • Tactical Wind Scent (On Line) – Dog follows airborne scent while on leash.

• Tracking/Trailing – Dog follows ground disturbance or human scent to locate a subject.

• Building Search – Dog searches an enclosed structure for a subject.

  • On or Off Line – Searches can be conducted on leash (on line) or off leash (off line), depending on the situation.

Perimeters in K-9 Searches

• Initial Response:

  • First officer ensures victim is safe, obtains charges, and broadcasts suspect description.

  • Determine suspect’s last known location.

• Perimeter Setup:

  • Cover 4-5 blocks in each direction, considering time elapsed.

  • 4-point perimeter is ideal; 2-point can be used if necessary.

• Search Considerations:

  • Second or third officer should establish the perimeter.

  • Avoid following directly behind a fleeing suspect.

  • If suspect is lost from sight, it becomes a search, not a pursuit.

  • Stay at the last known location of the suspect.

Perimeter Considerations

• K-9 Search Start Point: Begin at the last location the suspect was seen on the ground.

• Building Perimeter: Cover all escape routes if possible; otherwise, use a 2-point perimeter.

• Lighting:

  • Keep all lights on to illuminate the area.

  • Avoid backlighting fellow officers.

• Officer Positioning:

  • Exit your vehicle.

  • Maintain a safe position.

  • Actively look and listen for the suspect.

• Purpose: The perimeter’s goal is to contain the suspect and force them into hiding.

Perimeter Responsibilities

• Remain in Position: Stay on the perimeter until cleared by a Supervisor or K-9 Handler.

• Traffic Control: Manage both vehicle and pedestrian movement in the area.

• Evidence Preservation: A well-maintained perimeter helps preserve evidence and the scent pool for the K-9 team.

K-9 Announcements

• Used for: Area and building searches (except when a weapon is involved).

• Purpose:

  • Warns bystanders, witnesses, and other deputies that a K-9 will be deployed.

  • Gives the suspect an opportunity to surrender before engagement.

  • Serves as a final lawful order stating the suspect is under arrest.

• Procedure:

  • K-9 handler gives multiple announcements with pauses for a response.

  • Announcements can be made via PA system.

  • For large area searches, repeat announcements multiple times.

K-9 Search Considerations

• Before Deployment:

  • Ensure perimeter is established and consider the time frame.

• Potential Dangers:

  • Weapons

  • Other animals

  • Chemicals

• Business Owner/Keyholder Role:

  • Helps pursue charges and grants property access if needed.

  • Verify no cleaning crews or employees are present.

• Consent Matters:

  • If the owner does not want to press charges, K-9 may not be deployed.

K-9 Searches While Moving

• Team Movement: Move as a unit, following the K-9 handler’s direction.

• Tactical Awareness:

  • Use cover and concealment, especially upon suspect contact.

  • Maintain focus on your area of responsibility, NOT the K-9.

• Team Role: Officers cover the handler during the search.

Tactical Considerations Upon K-9 Alert

• Maintain flashlight Dicipline. (Do not backlight officers)

• Weapons Ready:

  • Lethal (firearm)

  • Less-lethal (Taser, baton, etc.)

  • Hands

• Situational Awareness:

  • Look up and cover your assigned area of responsibility.

  • Stay alert for additional suspects.

• Response to Alert:

  • Wait for handler’s commands before acting.

  • Call suspect to you to take them into custody.

Suspect Behavior & Tactical Considerations

Think Like a suspect

• Evasion Tactics:

  • Suspects may circle back to a vehicle or attempt to get behind officers.

• Disorientation & Hiding:

  • Unfamiliar suspects may become lost and seek concealment.

• Ambush Awareness:

  • Always be prepared for ambush situations.

  • Expect the unexpected and stay vigilant.

• Officer Readiness:

  • The suspect controls when the confrontation occurs—officers must stay prepared and adaptable.

Tracking vs Yard-to-Yard Searches

• Yard-to-Yard Search:

  • Utilize the scent cone from the last known location.

  • Move between yards until the K-9 alerts to human odor.

  • Wind direction is preferred for better scent flow.

  • Not tracking exact path

• Tracking Search:

  • Focus on ground disturbances and follow the most recent signs.

  • Nose to the ground method to track the suspect’s path.

Tactical Considerations Upon K-9 Alert

• Flashlight Discipline: Avoid backlighting search team / officers.

• Weapon Readiness: Ensure your weapon is ready as you move.

• Situational Awareness:

  • Cover your area of responsibility.

  • Look up to stay aware of surroundings.

• Handler Direction:

  • Allow the K-9 handler to give commands.

  • Close on the suspect only when directed by the handler.

• Additional Suspects:

  • Be mindful that there may be more than one suspect. Stay alert for the unexpected.