Goodhue County Sheriff’s K-9 Unit

The Goodhue County Sheriff’s Office’s K9 Deputy, Jordan Markegard and partner, Rico, have been together for awhile now and it’s a unique part of law enforcement.

Markegard says there was a 13 week training course for Rico, who is a male Malinois/German Shepard mix.

Off duty, Rico acts like any other pooch but when he’s on the job it’s all business.

Deputy Markegard says Rico learned building, drug and person searches, major apprehension and more.

He says people have tried replacing K9 dogs with technology but the canine nose can’t be replaced.

The K9s are considered a Deputy Sheriff and have their own equipment issued and they have special patrol cars that are set up to ensure their safety and comfort.