The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation began utilizing drug detection canines in 1984 and ignitable liquids detection canines in 1986.  Since that time, the NCSBI Canine Program has evolved, adding additional disciplines to assist the needs of NCSBI agents, our local, state, and federal partners, and the citizens of the State of North Carolina.

Currently, the NCSBI has a total of fifteen canine teams working in one of six disciplines; drug detection, electronic storage detection, explosives detection, human remains detection, ignitable liquids detection, and therapy. Teams respond statewide as needed and as resources allow. Our canines are a valuable tool and resource not only for the NCSBI, but for other partner agencies and the citizens of North Carolina by finding evidence and contraband, locating crime scenes, and safeguarding lives and property.

Being a K9 handler for the NCSBI is a collateral duty. Prospective handlers are special agents who already excel in their primary assigned duty and are chosen during a selective process. Agents who are selected must attend an initial basic canine handler school. After initial training each canine team is required to train monthly in accordance with industry standards and certifies annually with a national certification body such as the United States Police Canine Association (USPCA), the International Police Work Dog Association (IPWDA) or the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF).

The Canine Program is coordinated by an Assistant Special Agent in Charge (ASAC). The ASAC’s responsibilities include fielding search requests, reviewing deployment reports and training records, conducting semi-annual reviews of each canine team, scheduling/conducting monthly in-house training, and coordinating outside training for canine teams.

The Canine Program additionally hosts training for other local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies. Canine handlers also routinely conduct demonstrations and provide lectures to schools and other organizations as requested and as resources and scheduling allow.

For more information on the NCSBI Canine Program or to request assistance from one of our canine teams, please contact ASAC J. Taylor at jataylor@ncsbi.gov.