Canine Unit

The Tipp City Police Department K-9 unit is comprised of a German Shepherd named Gitta.  Gitta replaced K9 Prints after eight years of service who was handled by Sgt. Eric Burris.  Gitta is trained with her handler Officer Greg Adkins in narcotic detection, tracking, area search, evidence search.  Gitta was born in Hawaii before coming to Ohio where she was purchased and trained by Police Dog Services, Germantown, Ohio.  Gitta went through an 11 week training period with Officer Adkins.  Gitta trains weekly with a maintenance group of several area departments.  Gitta lives with her handler and both are subject to call out at anytime. 

Officer Adkins and Gitta have been a team in full service since November 2008.  Gitta was purchased in July 2008 and began training after community and business donations were received to continue the K9 program.  A group of members "Friends of Tipp City Police K9 Unit" were development and solicited businesses and private funds for her purchase and training.  The funds were also used to purchase specialized vehicle equipment needed to safely transport and secure the dog and equipment.  The vehicle, a traditional police cruiser, is equipped with a secure K9 insert for transport, electric air circulation and cruiser temperature alarm system.  We are very grateful to all donors of the program including citizens, local organizations, Tipp City Eagles, Tipp City VFW, Troy Fish and Game Club, along with numerous other businesses in Tipp City area.   

The purchase and maintenance of these dogs is an expensive endeavor.  It is made possible thanks to the support of English Veterinary Services, Martin E. English D.V.M. who donates his services, and donors who assist in the purchase of food for Gitta.

Gitta and Officer Adkins work closely with "Officer Dan" Rittenhouse and the D.A.R.E. program for school and civic functions, along with demonstrations.  Please feel free to contact Officer Adkins if you would like to set up a demonstration, and if you see them on patrol, please feel free to stop and ask to pet Gitta, she is a friendly dog.