College Place Police Department debuts first drug detection K9
By Dan Thesman on Wednesday, April 8th, 2026 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
COLLEGE PLACE – The College Place Police Department introduced K9 Letty, the agency’s first-ever drug detection dog, during a city council workshop Tuesday night.
Photo of K9 Letty via College Place Police Department
Letty, a one-and-a-half-year-old golden labrador retriever bred in Europe, joins the force following extensive specialized training. She is paired with Officer Kyle Barker, a four-year veteran of the department who specializes in narcotics arrests.
The duo completed 120 hours of basic training at the Tarheel Canine Training Center in North Carolina before returning to Washington for advanced instruction under Master K9 Instructor Gunner Fulmer. The team recently secured dual certifications from the State of Washington and the Pacific Northwest Police Detection Dog Association.
Officials credited local support for the program’s launch, citing contributions from Mayor Norma Hernandez, the College Place City Council, and several local businesses. The department stated that the new K9 unit serves as a critical tool to combat dangerous drugs throughout the Walla Walla Valley.
Top photo via College Place Police Department of Officer Kyle Barker and K9 Letty
