The Will County Sheriff’s Office announced on Wednesday they will be adding a Sheriff’s Canine Unit to the new Will County Courthouse once it opens.
Among those included to secure the building will be 2-year-old German shepherd Lokie, who has been extensively trained in detecting explosives. Lokie and his deputy handler will be on-duty five days a week during courthouse hours.
“The current Sheriff’s deputy canine handlers and their dogs do an outstanding job out on the streets. Since bringing back the K-9 Unit in 2015, they have seized hundreds of thousands of dollars in illegal drugs,” Sheriff Mike Kelley said. “With the new courthouse, updated and increased security measures are necessary. It just makes sense to bring in Lokie to help us with identifying any potential danger that may otherwise be missed. We’re excited to have him join the team.”
Sheriff Kelley thanked Will County State’s Attorney Jim Glasgow for his generous donation in splitting the cost of Lokie.
“When the Sheriff requested my assistance in purchasing a canine trained in detecting explosives in order to enhance safety in the new courthouse, I agreed without hesitation. Dogs provide solace and comfort in our personal lives, and high-tech protection to our law enforcement community,” State’s Attorney Glasgow said. “Having purchased K9s for seven local municipalities using money forfeited by criminals and at no cost to taxpayers, this was a natural fit. Lokie will be a significant and valuable resource in protecting everyone at Will County’s new courthouse. “
