The Waupaca County Sheriff’s Office highlights the critical role and specialized capabilities of its active K-9 unit in the ongoing 2025 Annual Report Spotlight series.
Operating throughout Waupaca County, the department deploys four handler-and-canine teams to manage criminal investigations, track missing persons, detect illegal narcotics, and protect officers. The current roster includes Deputy James Santiago and K-9 Cuda, who have served together since 2017, and Deputy Adam LaBrosse and K-9 Dom, who have partnered since 2019. The newest additions to the department are Deputy Eric Kamholz with K-9 Ennie and Deputy Brenden Muske with K-9 Rondo, both joining the active workforce in 2024.
To maintain operational readiness, Santiago, LaBrosse, Kamholz, and Muske invest extensive hours into specialized training regimens. This continuous preparation allows the teams to execute precise law enforcement procedures across several key disciplines. During traffic stops and criminal sweeps, the dogs detect illegal narcotics and assist deputies in intercepting illicit drugs.
The unit also uses advanced tracking methods to follow human scent, allowing handlers to locate missing individuals and fleeing suspects. In addition to tracking, the teams perform article recovery by searching for discarded or concealed items that are vital to criminal investigations. In dangerous environments, the dogs follow officer-protection protocols to shield deputies and residents from physical harm. These capabilities allow the sheriff’s office to serve as a regional asset, regularly assisting neighboring law enforcement agencies.
A unique public-private funding framework sustains the county’s K-9 program. While the sheriff’s office provides essential personnel support by using taxpayer-funded resources to cover deputy overtime for training and care, the program relies heavily on private donations. Financial contributions from local families, individuals, businesses, and community organizations directly cover the costs of specialized equipment, veterinary care, and training resources. Department officials say the program cannot operate at its current capacity without this ongoing community funding.
Beyond tactical duties, the handler and canine pairs function as public ambassadors for the sheriff’s office. The teams regularly visit local schools, attend community events, and conduct public demonstrations. These interactive sessions allow residents, particularly children, to engage with law enforcement officers in a positive environment, helping build public trust and strengthen community relationships.
