AUGUSTA, Ga. – The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office is set to welcome new deputies soon, but these officers won’t be human. Thanks to a $22,000 donation from the Shield Club of Augusta, the sheriff’s office will be able to expand its K-9 unit, providing valuable support for deputies in the field.

The Sheriff’s Office K-9 unit plays a critical role in various law enforcement activities, including search operations, drug detection, and apprehending violent criminals. Deputy Matthew Cowdrey, who has worked alongside his K-9 partner Takota for four years, emphasized the unique abilities of these canine officers.

“A lot of the time, you never know what to expect,” Deputy Cowdrey explained. “It could be a search for a missing person, sniffing out drugs, or helping capture dangerous criminals. These dogs are always ready.”

Takota, a seven-year-old German Shepherd, has proven to be a dedicated and focused partner in the field. According to Deputy Cowdrey, Takota’s commitment to the job is unwavering. “He doesn’t care about human food or getting petted—his sole focus is finding drugs, tracking down bad guys, and doing his job,” Cowdrey said.

Sheriff Eugene Brantley expressed his gratitude for the donation, noting the impact it will have on the department’s operations. “Every second counts in law enforcement, and this donation will enhance our ability to respond effectively. This expansion would not have been possible without the incredible generosity of the Shield Club of Augusta,” Brantley said.

The Shield Club of Augusta has a long history of supporting law enforcement in the area, including providing resources like Kevlar vests and cameras for deputies. David Alalof, president of the Shield Club, highlighted the importance of having the best tools available to keep the community safe.

“To keep the community safe, we have to ensure our deputies have the best resources,” Alalof stated. “Canines like Takota are invaluable—they help locate missing children, assist in apprehending criminals, and are excellent at detecting drugs and explosives.”

Both Takota and Arie, another K-9 partner, are active members of the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office K-9 unit. As law enforcement continues to evolve, the growing partnership between human officers and their canine counterparts is proving to be a vital asset to the community.