Haywood County Sheriff’s Office has a new K9 team

Published on November 6, 2019

The Haywood County Sheriff’s Office’s newest K9 deputy “Kilo” is officially part of the law enforcement family.

Sergeant Matthew Trantham and Kilo completed a 10-week handler certification course Friday, Nov. 1, after Kilo passed the U.S. Police Canine Association (USPCA) detection and tracking course (held in August).

 “Since July I’ve been working on one of my dreams since I was in high school- being a K9 handler,” said Trantham.

Ken Thomas and Carol Rogers Thomas donated the German Shepherd to the office in July 2018.

 “This process has changed my life,” Trantham said. “Through many hours of hard work, a lot of help from my wife and guidance from my K9 handler friends along the way, we have made it. It is a gratifying moment now knowing all the hard work has finally paid off.”

Sheriff Greg Christopher said he is extremely proud of the perseverance Sergeant Trantham showed during this process. Read More