November 11th, 2026 6 Amazing K9s You Need to Meet in West Jordan
Meet West Jordan Police Department’s (WJPD) six stellar, sharp-nosed and sworn-to-serve K9s!
These dogs are phenomenal companions for police officers. They take on jobs that are invisible to officers, like picking up scents and following suspect trails. They help keep everyone safe, officers and residents alike.
The dogs are chosen for their drive, their unwavering courage and their willingness to do whatever it takes to get what they want.
What do they want? Toys. Once they find the suspect or the drug, these dogs just want their special plaything. But don’t be fooled: These dogs are serious, focused and ready to work at a moment’s notice.
Get to know each K9 from the people who know them best, their officer handlers:
Buddy and Sergeant McMullin
Belgian Malinois/German Shepherd, 2 years old
Newest K9, joined August 2026
Role: Narcotics, in training for Patrol
“Buddy is a big goofball who will do anything to get his favorite toy which is a ball on a rope…he will do anything to get the toy. Once Buddy gets his toy he is content sitting there and holding it in his mouth all day.” – Sgt. McMullin
Zhari and Officer Collins
Dutch Shepherd, 2 years old
Role: SWAT – Narcotics and Patrol
“He loves going to work.
“Zhari’s name comes from a province of Afghanistan where I was deployed. His nickname “Ed” comes from the Lion King because he sticks his tongue out like the hyena.
“Despite winning first place in ‘Tuff Dog’, he is incredibly gentle at home with family.” – Officer Collins
Diesel and Officer Workman
Dutch Shepherd, 17 months old
Joined summer 2026
Role: Narcotics and Patrol
“He recently became fully certified and has officially started working the roads. He’s already had success locating illegal narcotics and is continuing to develop his skills and gain experience in patrol work. With his drive, energy, and determination, Diesel is on his way to becoming a reliable and effective partner in keeping the community safe.
“When Diesel isn’t working, he trades his patrol mode for being a certified mama’s boy. He loves spending time with Mom and soaking up all the cuddles he can get—when he holds still long enough to enjoy them.
“His favorite toy is a tug, and he has a love for treats.
“Whether he’s working hard on the streets or enjoying some downtime at home, Diesel brings personality, enthusiasm, and a whole lot of energy to everything he does.” – Officer Workman
Murphy and Officer Strasters
Belgian Malinois, 3 years old
Role: Narcotics and Patrol
“Murphy is always on the move and never seems to tire. He is passionate about his work and will do anything to apprehend the bad guys, even if he has to run through walls to get them.” – Officer Strasters
Echo and Officer Cardon
Dutch Shepherd, 4 years old
Role: Narcotics and Patrol
“Echo has earned several awards at numerous K9 competitions, demonstrating her exceptional skills, drive, and dedication to duty.
“Echo regularly assists local, and federal law enforcement agencies here in the state, serving as a valuable asset in narcotics enforcement and apprehension operations. Her hard work, reliability, and commitment make her an outstanding member of the K9 team.” – Officer Cardon
Vranik and Sergeant Jones
Dutch Shepherd, 6 years old
Most Experienced
Role: SWAT – Patrol
“Vranik’s career is defined by service, courage, and an unwavering willingness to work. Vranik is more than a police service dog—he is a trusted partner, a member of the department, and a key part of the WJPD K9 Squad’s success.
“During 2025 alone, Vranik recorded 18 influenced arrests and one apprehension involving a bite, demonstrating that his greatest value was often not in using force, but in preventing the need for it.
“During his service, West Jordan Police Department K9 Squad earned the distinction of being named Utah’s Top Patrol Agency for four consecutive years.
“To his handler, Vranik is something even greater—a partner who goes wherever he is asked to go, is trusted without hesitation, and stands ready every time the call comes.” – Sgt. Jones
