BENTON – The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office has a new K9 officer.

According to Sheriff Kyle Bacon, the sheriff’s office took possession of K9 Stryker on Sept. 6.

Stryker is a 2-year-old German Shepard. Stryker and his handler, Deputy Terry Flood, recently began an intensive 160 hour training course at Vohne Liche Kennels in Denver, IN.

We are excited to add Stryker to our existing K9 team of Vader and Riot. The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office will continue to work in conjunction with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies to form a more cohesive front in attacking the rampant drug problems that so negatively impact our communities.

The purchase of Stryker and all related equipment and training are being paid for by funds obtained from the National Opioid Abatement Settlement. This multi state civil action resulted in a $26 billion national agreement with major pharmaceutical manufacturers and distributors of opioids. In addition, these same funds have been utilized within the Franklin County Jail and other local community related programs to aid in the treatment of those in and effected by addiction.

The sheriff thanks Franklin County States Attorney Abby Dinn and the Franklin County Board for their support of the K9 program.