Canutillo ISD welcomes new police dog

The Canutillo Independent School District welcome thousands of students this week for a new school year, but there is a new face on the CISD Police Department– a furry face.

Alis, the police K9, is partnered with Officer Carlos Macias and together they work to keep CISD campuses safe.

“The K9 is going to be a deterrence for narcotics and for firearms. She is the only one in the area that is trained in detecting firearms,” Macias said.

Macias said he hopes anyone will think twice before stepping into a CISD campus with drugs or a weapon.

While Alis’ presence is important, Macias wants students, staff and parents to feel comfortable around her. Macias plans to take her to all campuses for a proper introduction.

The partnership between Macias and Alis does not end after school, she goes home with the officer everyday.

“As a K9 officer you’re dedicated to your K9 partner.”

Macias has to ensure Alis is on top of her game while at work and that means training after school, at home and on weekends.

Most of her training takes place at CISD campuses, but Macias also takes her to warehouses, junkyards and other environments so she can always be ready to work no matter her surroundings.

Macias and Alis also train with other police dogs and officers from school districts like Socorro and El Paso.

“We all train together and try to get together once a week,” Macias said.

This is the second year the Canutillo ISD Police Department is in service.

In 2016, the CISD Board of Trustees approved the creation of a police force.