VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY) – Master Deputy Crystal Repass is the first woman K9 handler in the history of the Virginia Beach Sherriff’s Office. Repass is a 16.5-year veteran of the VBSO.
“I am honored to be the first woman dog handler at the Virginia Beach Sheriff’s Office,”
Repass said. “I am passionate about protecting and serving our community, and working with K9
Apollo will allow me to use my skills and dedication in a new and impactful way.”
This week Repass and Apollo, a 3-year-old Belgian Malinois, joined the VBSO K9 Unit after they passed their first narcotic detection certification through the Virginia Police Work Dog Association, or VPWDA.
Apollo was given to VBSO last year by Sgt. Nancy Bass and Master Deputy Joe Bass.
“We are thrilled to welcome K9 Apollo and Master Deputy Crystal Repass to our K9 team,” Sheriff Rocky Holcomb said. “Together, they will further our efforts to protect the jail and the community from drugs, including this deadly opioid, and demonstrate the VBSO’s commitment to diversity within the ranks.”
The evaluation process included screenings of building interiors, vehicles, luggage/parcel screenings and couriers. Certifiers said the team displayed efficiency and accuracy in all areas.
“Apollo’s specialized training and exceptional abilities will undoubtedly assist in our mission to keep drugs out of the jail and off the streets,” Holcomb said. “And they will play a crucial role in our efforts to detect and intercept fentanyl, potentially saving countless lives.”
The pair was successful in the five certifiable drug odors, and Apollo is also trained to recognize fentanyl. Currently, the VPWDA does not have a fentanyl certification process.
“With Apollo’s keen sense of smell, remarkable agility and high level of training, he is poised to become an invaluable asset in the fight against fentanyl and other drugs,” a press release states.
As the first woman to join the unit, Holcomb offered his support.
“We are ecstatic to have Master Deputy Crystal Repass as the newest member of the K9 Unit,”
said Holcomb. “She brings a wealth of experience to the position and will be a great asset to the team.”
He went on to say, “Her appointment not only exemplifies progress within the law enforcement profession, but also serves as an inspiration for women aspiring to make a difference in their communities.”
The VBSO K9 Unit began in 2013. Originally, the unit had one canine and handler team. Now, there are 3 K9s and three handlers.
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