Training to take a bite out of crime, Lumpkin County Sheriff’s Office canines, Darth and Jager, recently got a shot at a newly donated bite suit. Lieutenant Greg Cochran was brave enough to put on the heavily padded suit and see if it could withstand the teeth of the two state certified canines. Cochran stood about twenty yards away and presented himself as a possible threat to the K-9 Deputies. The alert and well trained canine’s tensed and awaited the command from their handler as Lt. Cochran turned his back and awaited their approach. Within seconds Lt. Cochran was taken to the ground with a canine on each arm. Then, at the command of their handlers, Darth and Jager released their hold.

The protective gear was compliments of Sawnee Mountain Kennel Club, which is a purebred dog club located in Cumming, Georgia. Kay Allred and Sharon Ero, from the Kennel Club, were both on hand to watch the demonstration. The gear will be used in further training of the K-9’s and their handlers.

The Kennel Club also presented the Lumpkin County Sheriff’s Office with two specially fitted bullet proof vests, valued at more than $800.00, to help keep Darth and Jager safe. The club also recently presented the Lumpkin County Fire Department with animal resuscitation masks needed to revive pets suffering from smoke inhalation.

The Lumpkin County Sheriff’s Office wants to offer a sincere thanks and appreciation to the Sawnee Mountain Kennel Club for their generous donations and concern. "We're always concerned about the safety of our officers and our K-9s are just that," added Sheriff Mark McClure.

Some photographs from the demonstration are shown below.