Tessa

Handler: Dale Cox
Breed: Malinois
DOB:  9/28/2011
Department:  Illinois Secretary of State Police
Function: Explosive Detection
Years Worked: 6/13/2013 – 8/1/2020

K9 Tessa and I entered active service with the Illinois Secretary of State Police Hazardous Devices Unit following an intensive six week explosive detection K9 basic class at Controlled Force K9 in Lisle IL. K9 Tessa and I also attended advanced explosive detection K9 training at the St. Louis Police Department K9 Academy.

Upon entering active service, K9 Tessa was utilized throughout the state of Illinois for explosive threat response, critical site K9 sweeps, dignitary protection, special events, support to state and federal military operations and community relation events.

K9 Tessa and I provided direct support to protective efforts at the Illinois State Capitol, Illinois Governor’s Mansion, Illinois Supreme Court, Central District of Illinois Federal Court, Chicago Marathons, Inauguration’s of Illinois elected constitutional officers and representatives. K9 Tessa and I responded to hundreds of explosive threats throughout Illinois affecting schools, businesses and industry. The abilities of K9 Tessa allowed for Illinois school children to continue to learn, business to continue to thrive and industry to support the needs of our world.

K9 Tessa was able to serve the people of Illinois due to the outstanding healthcare providers at Capitol Illini Veterinarian Clinic.

K9 Tessa has been a cherished member of our family. K9 Tessa’s well deserved retirement has been enhanced by your generous support and for that, we are extremely grateful.