A dog with bomb-sniffing capabilities has joined the Arlington County Sheriff’s Office’s K9 team.
Weaver, a 1.5-year old Labrador retriever, is tasked with ensuring the safety of the Courthouse neighborhood and surrounding areas.
Joined by handler Corporal Kevin McCabe, the pup received certification from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and training from the PennVet Working Dog Center in Philadelphia.
In addition to sniffing out explosives, Weaver is trained in evidence searching and search and rescue. Her name is a tribute to Walter Edward Weaver, a New York City police officer who died during the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks while rescuing victims from the World Trade Center, according to a release from ACSO.
“Welcoming K9 Weaver into our team is not only a step toward further ensuring the safety of our community but also a tribute to a true hero,” Sheriff Jose Quiroz said. “Officer Walter Weaver’s legacy of bravery and sacrifice inspires us, and we are honored to carry that name forward.”
Weaver joins a pair of other Labrador retrievers in duty: Hope, a “wellness dog” who joined the office in August, and Logan, who is certified in drug and electronics detection.
