K-9 Lobo and Trooper Gonzalez
demonstrate a vehicle search.

Recently, Troopers Brian Martin and Elliot Gonzalez, along with K-9's Bacar and Lobo graduated from the Florida Highway Patrol's Drug Detection Academy. Trooper Brian Martin is a 6-year veteran of FHP; his partner K-9 Bacar is a 2-year-old German shepherd. They both finished Patrol Dog School earlier this year in July. Trooper Elliot Gonzalez served with FHP for 5 years before leaving to serve with the U.S. Customs Service on the Southwest border, only to return to FHP once again. His partner K-9 Lobo was born in Hungary on May 23, 2003.

K-9 Bacar and Trooper Brian Martin
demonstrate a package search.

The K-9's and their handlers successfully demonstrated proficiency in a variety of drug detection training specialties, including Point-to-Point Search (objects and boxes), Package Search, Vehicle Search, and Person Search.

Chief Lee presents graduation diploma
to Trooper Elliot Gonzalez.

Following the training, Chief James Lee, Major Mike Guzman, and Troops K and L command staff were treated to a K-9 Demonstration, followed by an awards ceremony and lunch. The newest graduates will be patrolling Florida's Turnpike working hard to keep drug traffickers off our roadways.

FHP sends out a special thanks to Miami Subs, FAST, and Duffy’s Sports Grill for sponsoring the luncheon.