NEWS

DAVIDSON, NC – The Davidson Police Department is excited to introduce the newest member of our team, and we think the community will enjoy getting to know him.

Meet Nitro, a male Belgian Malinois born in May 2025 in the Czech Republic. Nitro will soon begin his journey as a Davidson Police Department K9 alongside Cpl. Brad Couturier, who was selected as our next K9 handler following a comprehensive K9 assessment. Cpl. Couturier is an experienced handler and brings several years of successful K9 experience from his previous department.

This process began in August when the Davidson Police Department selection team traveled to Ventosa Kennel Police K9 Training Facility in Marshville, N.C., to evaluate seven dogs that met our desired breed and gender criteria. Each dog was carefully assessed for the qualities that are essential to becoming an effective police K9, including temperament, drive, and age. Following the evaluation, two dogs stood out as strong candidates. After additional testing, Cpl. Couturier selected Nitro as his new partner. Selecting a police K9 is about much more than finding a highly trained dog. It is about creating a partnership built on trust, communication, and teamwork. That relationship will be an important part of Nitro and Cpl. Couturier’s success as they begin working together.

In September, Cpl. Couturier and Nitro will begin an intensive six-week training program. During this time, they will develop the skills, communication, and teamwork necessary to serve our community as a K9 team. While Nitro’s primary role will be supporting public safety and law enforcement operations, his presence will also provide an opportunity for positive engagement with the community. Police K9s are often a bridge between law enforcement officers and the people they serve, creating opportunities for conversations, demonstrations, and community connections.

As Nitro and Cpl. Couturier complete their training and begin working in Davidson, we look forward to introducing Nitro to residents and allowing our community to see firsthand the important role a K9 can play in keeping our community safe. A K9 program is a significant investment in public safety, and it would not be possible without the support of our community.

We extend our sincere appreciation to our community partners and supporters for their continued generosity. Your commitment to the Davidson Police Department helps us provide our officers with the resources and tools they need to serve our community effectively.

Nitro’s arrival represents more than the addition of another member to our department. It represents our continued commitment to public safety, community engagement, and providing the highest level of service to the people of Davidson. We are excited for the journey ahead and can’t wait for you to meet Nitro!

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