Charlotte County Public Schools expands school security with weapons detection K9

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Fla. — Charlotte County Public Schools, in partnership with the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office, is expanding its school safety efforts with the addition of a specially trained weapons detection K9.

Beginning this month, K9 Bala will be deployed throughout the district to conduct routine security sweeps at CCPS schools and facilities. Bala is trained to detect firearms and ammunition, providing an added layer of security for students, staff and visitors.

“Safety is our top priority, and we are always looking for ways to strengthen the protections we have in place,” said Superintendent Mark Vianello. “K9 Bala adds another important resource to our school safety efforts, and we appreciate the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office and DFC Earner for their continued partnership and commitment to keeping our students and staff safe.”

Bala will work alongside DFC Jacob Earner of the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office, who will serve as his handler. The team will support security operations throughout the district as part of the partnership between CCPS and the Sheriff’s Office.

“K9 Bala is a perfect example of the collaboration between the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office and Charlotte County Public Schools,” said Sheriff Bill Prummell. “The safety of our children in their classrooms is not something to be taken lightly. I look forward to seeing K9 Bala working alongside K9 Mila as an added layer of protection in our schools.”