ISP welcomes new explosive detection K-9 ahead of legislative session

BOISE, Idaho — The Idaho State Police is adding a new explosive detection K-9 to its Capitol Protective Services team, with the K-9 expected to be trained and ready for service in time for the 2027 legislative session.

K-9 Annie, an 18-month-old black Labrador retriever, has been paired with Trooper Tamara Rose and will receive specialized explosive detection training. Once certified, the team will support security efforts at the Idaho State Capitol and other state facilities and events.

K-9 Annie will fill the role previously held by K-9 Kimber, an explosive detection K-9 who served with ISP for four years and passed away earlier this year after a battle with cancer.

“Police K-9s give our troopers a capability that simply can’t be replicated by people or technology,” ISP K-9 Sgt. Chris Cottrell said. “Whether they are searching for explosives or illegal drugs, their ability to quickly detect potential threats helps us protect the public and the places we are entrusted to keep safe.”

ISP currently has eight K-9s stationed throughout Idaho, including six trained in drug detection and two trained in explosive detection. For Capitol Protective Services, explosive detection K-9 teams are an important part of the layered security used to protect the Capitol, state employees and the thousands of people who visit state buildings each year.

K-9 Annie and Trooper Rose will spend the coming months training together and building the skills and partnership necessary to become a certified explosive detection team.

For interviews regarding K-9 Annie or ISP’s K-9 program, contact PIO Sophia Miraglio at 208-989-0837.

Posted in District 1 - Northern Idaho, District 2 - Central Idaho, District 3 - Western Idaho, District 4 - Southern Idaho, District 5 - Southeastern Idaho, District 6 - Eastern Idaho