Multi-agency training focuses on search and rescue operations in Pender County

PENDER COUNTY (WWAY) — The Pender County Sheriff’s Office hosted a special search and rescue training on Tuesday.

Law enforcement officers moving through the woods practicing a high-stakes scenario.

The Pender County Sheriff’s Office, along with other agencies, took part in a manhunt using K-9 units and drones to sharpen search and rescue operations.

“We try to train like it’s real life, that way there’s no surprises when the real thing does happen,” said Josiah Dorton.

Sergeant Josiah Dorton says this scenario-based training better equips deputies to serve the community.

“Learning, you know, by the book is awesome, but then putting it to real use is the most important part because that’s what’s going to affect the community the most,” said Dorton.

The training focuses on communication between drones with a bird’s eye view and the boots on the ground K-9 teams.

“Drones have come a long way in the past 10 years,” said Robert Knight.

Robert Knight with the Bartow County Sheriff’s Office in Georgia says using drone technology adds an extra layer of safety for the officers on the ground.

“We’re able to put a drone safely in the air, follow a team, and let them be aware of what’s their surroundings. The woods are thick, you don’t know where somebody is located at with a gun or someone that’s hurt, so the drone can do an overwatch looking down on the person and give them enough time to realize you have danger ahead,” said Knight.

Officers ran multiple scenarios with different challenges.

Dorton says the training in different terrain is critical, especially for K-9s.

“Some of the dogs might not be exposed to these types of environments. Some people are from the inner city, so they don’t get to work in the woods a lot. So, it’s good for the dogs to be exposed to different environments,” said Dorton.

Ultimately, Dorton says this training helps them and helps the community.

“Our job is about taking care of the community, getting guys that don’t need to be out about by themselves, getting them in custody, taking care of them, and also locating missing persons to help, you know, help the community for anything that they need,” said Dorton.

With the inclusion of other companies, these trainings build connections with other law enforcement companies.