Full-Time K-9 Units Deployed Across District Events
Denver Public Schools is deploying nine specially trained dogs to detect firearms and explosives at district events, denver7.com reported.
The canine units are provided through Phantom K9 and function as part of an enhanced security program designed to protect students, staff, and families across the district. The pilot program began last year, but this marks the first year the dogs have been assigned to work Denver Public Schools events full-time.
Phantom K9 Uses Various Breeds to Monitor Crowds
“Currently, we have nine dogs assigned to DPS, and they vary from the Labradors to the German Torrey Pointers,” Jazz Stanze, President of Operations for Phantom K9, told denver7.com.
The dogs are stationed strategically throughout event venues to monitor crowds before, during, and after gatherings. They are trained to identify threats even in large, crowded spaces.
“The dogs are able to pinpoint a firearm or any contraband on an individual in a targeted area amongst a large crowd, audience, fan goers, whatever,” Stanze stated.
Dogs Detect Explosives and Firearms Through Scent
Stanze noted that a dog’s sense of smell provides an advantage over human security guards. The capability to detect small amounts of odor across a large area differs substantially from a hand swipe or handheld technology.
The dogs undergo training to detect explosives and firearms to keep those items off school campuses. Handlers conceal a small amount of black powder in hidden areas during training exercises to test the dogs.
Indoor detection presents greater challenges for the animals compared to outdoor environments. Exterior detection relies on natural instincts, whereas indoor spaces require dogs to move through and understand various objects, according to Stanze.
Deterrence and Community Reception
For Joseph Guerra, a patrol officer with the DPS Department of Climate and Safety, the program serves purposes beyond simple detection.
“Us working with this new enhanced program, the canine units at our athletic sporting events, helps with deterrence and petty crime, if you will,” Guerra told denver7.com.
Guerra emphasized that the goal is maintaining security without creating fear or anxiety among attendees. The district relies on the friendly nature of the animals to foster a welcoming presence.
“The reactions have been positive, if you will, because I mean they’re dogs at the end of the day, so I feel like the human nature is to love on them and acknowledge them,” Guerra said.
The District Adapts Protocols to Protect Stakeholders
Guerra explained to denver7.com that the district remains committed to adapting security protocols as potential threats evolve.
“Protocols are constantly changing. We’re evolving, and we’re just trying to show the community that we take their safety serious,” Guerra said. “This is all teamwork, and our end goal essentially is the protection and the security of our staff, students, and stakeholders.”
