January 4 , 2006

K-9 unit joins TriMet's Transit Police Division

The addition boosts comprehensive security program

TriMet just expanded its Transit Police Division by adding its first K-9 unit.  Pearl, a black Labrador retriever and Officer John Blair will perform random security searches on MAX and buses.  The sweeps will increase visibility and boost the transit system’s comprehensive security program.

Following the London transit bombings in July, TriMet partnered with the Port of Portland K-9 unit and Federal Protective Services to increase presence on the system and patrol our trains.

"We found that the K-9 unit enhanced our security efforts and brought us specific skills in explosive detection that will help us maintain the safety and integrity of our system," said Fred Hansen, TriMet's general manager.  "The Department of Homeland Security is also recommending that transit districts add K-9 patrols to their security programs."

Pearl and Officer Blair are the first team in TriMet's K-9 unit.  The agency plans to add up to two more dogs especially trained for transit security purposes. 

Additional Information

Pearl is a two-year-old, 55-lb, female black lab, born in Hartville, S.C. She and her handler, Officer Blair, graduated from a 10-week training course at the Auburn University Canine Detection Training Center in Alabama. 

Officer Blair is an eight-year veteran of the Portland Police Bureau and has spent the last two years with the Transit Police Division.