Burnet approves funds for new K-9 officer; old dog detective retires
K-9 Officer Ferro, a German shorthaired pointer, enjoys his retirement after busting criminals with the Burnet Police Department for two years. Burnet Police Department photo
The Burnet Police Department is preparing to add a new K-9 unit to their ranks after the retirement of Ferro, the German shorthaired pointer, earlier this year.
Officer Ferro served the police department for two years, helping keep the streets of Burnet safe. He was trained as a narcotics-detection dog to help with investigations and assisted in numerous arrests during his tenure.
According to Burnet Police Chief Brian Lee, Ferro’s presence served as a steady warning to potential criminals.
“His presence was a deterrent,” he told DailyTrib. “If residents saw Ferro, the hope would be to stop any crimes before they happen.”
The BPD announced on Dec. 5 that Officer Justin Ornelas was selected to be the handler of the next K-9 unit. Ornelas currently serves the police department as a patrol officer.
The city council also recently approved funding for Officer Ornelas’ handler training and equipment. The process of training and certification of the next K-9 officer will begin soon and will cost an estimated $15,000.