Weekly K-9 training exercises continued this week at the DeSoto Parish Sheriff Training Center, where law enforcement agencies from across the region gathered to sharpen skills and strengthen interagency cooperation.
According to the DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office, Wednesdays are dedicated to advancing the capabilities of K-9 teams through hands-on, scenario-based training designed to prepare deputies and their canine partners for real-world situations. The latest session was hosted by Sgt. Kelby Pearah and included multiple surrounding agencies participating in the day-long exercises.
The morning training focused on practical scenarios, with deputies rotating in and out of the bite suit to help K-9 teams practice controlled apprehension techniques. Participating agencies included sheriff’s office K-9 handlers from Panola County, Sabine County, DeSoto Parish, Red River Parish, and Sabine Parish.
Training emphasized building searches and tracking operations inside structures — skills considered critical when locating suspects who may be hiding inside homes or businesses. Teams also worked on reinforcing K-9 recognition between uniformed deputies and suspects to ensure clear identification and controlled responses during high-stress encounters.
Officials noted the training not only improves operational readiness but also strengthens partnerships between neighboring law enforcement agencies.
“We appreciate all agencies in attendance for bringing their K-9 teams and for their willingness to participate — including those who volunteered to step into the direct line of a K-9,” the sheriff’s office said in a statement, adding a lighthearted acknowledgment to DeSoto Deputy Nolan Perot, who left training with a few scratches after assisting in exercises.
Sheriff Jayson Richardson praised the continued collaboration among departments.
“Training opportunities like this continue to strengthen partnerships between agencies and help ensure that deputies and their K-9 partners remain prepared to serve and protect the residents of their respective communities,” Richardson said. “We are always grateful to see agencies come together with a shared commitment to mastering their profession and focusing on safer, more effective methods in doing so.”
The DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office plans to continue hosting weekly K-9 training sessions as part of its ongoing commitment to public safety and professional development.