Officer Matt Yoder and K9 Sam worked as partners for the past six years within the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department.  The benefits that he provided the City of Charlotte are undeniable.  Among Sam’s numerous praises were his ability to effectively apprehend felons as well as track and locate missing persons.  Sam’s excellent demeanor allowed him to perform demonstrations to educate children in various settings including the YMCA, child development centers and schools within the Charlotte Mecklenburg School System.  K9 Sam had a strong desire to work and his excitement to go to work every night never ceased.  After serving our community for six years, K9 Sam has retired secondary to an illness.

Officer Yoder has begun training a new K9 named Jacks.  Jacks is named in recognition and honor of Jackalope Jack’s restaurant.  After learning of K9 Sam’s retirement, Rob Nixon, the owner of the establishment, came to the Police Department to offer his assistance.  Mr. Nixon graciously donated the money utilized to purchase Jacks.

As a business owner in Charlotte, Rob has had several issues that have required the assistance of the Police and he has always been very thankful for their service.  This is Nixon’s way of showing his gratitude to the Police Dept.  The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department K9 Unit appreciates the support he has given us and we understand this is a hard time for a lot of people and businesses.  Rob’s support is a donation that will benefit the Community and Officers for the next six years. 

Officer Yoder and K9 Jacks are currently in K9 training school here in Charlotte.  The K9 School is run by K9 Trainer Officer Rocky Lewis who has served in the Charlotte Police K9 unit for over 17 years.  Jacks is learning obedience, tracking, evidence and area search and narcotics detection.  Upon completion of the 12 week school Jacks will be ready to start working the road to serve and protect our community.

The K9 graduation will be Friday, December 12, 2008 at the Police and Fire Training Academy, which is located at 1770 Shopton Road.  The K9 Training Field is located off of Beam Rd.