Introducing K9 Karma, the Reno Police Department’s Newest K9 Officer

The Reno Police Department (RPD) is pleased to introduce its newest K9 officer. Meet K9 Karma, a three-year-old Belgian Malinois who specializes in gun detection and apprehension. K9 Karma is RPD's only female K9 and the department's second gun detection dog.

K9 Karma was born in the Netherlands and was later transported to a kennel in Southern California. After six weeks of training, K9 Karma was picked up by Officer Joshua Kent to begin her official duties with RPD.

"When I first met K9 Karma, we bonded right away, and she quickly learned about her duties as our department's new gun detection dog," said Officer Kent, K9 Karma's handler. "She previously trained alongside former gun detection dog K9 Jack, and his handler, Officer Schmidt, and is very well prepared for her role."

K9 Karma can detect the scent of guns, gun parts, and spent shell casings, as well as ammunition and other firearm-related items. K9 Karma's skills will play a vital role in supporting the Crime Gun Intelligence Center (CGIC), which is a collaborative initiative between the Reno Police Department, Sparks Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).

The CGIC is a data-driven initiative designed to identify, investigate, and disrupt gun crime by rapidly analyzing crime gun evidence. Through the integration of technologies such as the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN), eTrace, and investigative intelligence, CGICs generate actionable leads that link firearms to multiple incidents, identify repeat offenders, and prevent further acts of gun violence.

"The Reno Police Department is proud to highlight the continued development of its diverse and highly trained K9 Unit," said Reno Police Chief Kathryn Nance. "These K9s serve as critical force multipliers, significantly contributing to both public safety and operational efficiency."

Each K9 has two purposes. They are trained in a specialized detection discipline such as narcotics, explosives (EOD), or firearms, and are also skilled in suspect apprehension, handler protection, and enhancing officer safety during daily operations.

When K9 Karma is not working, she loves to play fetch and go for rides in Officer Kent's truck. K9 Karma prefers to sit in the front passenger seat regardless of whether she is working or not.

While K9 Karma is quite protective of her handler, once you become her friend she does know a few tricks. She can give hugs, shake hands (or paws), and enjoys a good high-five.