Broward Sheriff’s Office Deputies, K9 Partners Pass TSA Certification

Last year, Broward Sheriff’s Office deputies and K9s protected the more than 36 million passengers who traveled through Fort Lauderdale / Hollywood International Airport. On Wednesday, Jan. 22, the Broward Sheriff’s Office will recognize six Transportation Security Administration deputy and K9 teams for successful completion of a TSA certification that focuses on detection of explosive devices. 

“As the lead law enforcement agency for the Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport, BSO deputies and K9s are the frontline personnel responsible for keeping passengers and employees safe,” said Captain David Ellwood, who lead’s BSO’s airport district. “We commend these men, women and K9s for their hard work and dedication.”

Each of the six teams participated in an initial three-month TSA training course in Texas. Then, the teams conducted training throughout the year and were required to pass their annual re-certification exam. Of the six teams that passed the certification, two of them received a perfect score. 
TSA funds nine Explosive Ordinance Detection deputies and their K9 partners at the airport. The teams are responsible for the detection of explosive devices at terminal baggage, ticketing and concourses, the rental car center, construction sites, locations staffed by private companies that operate out of the airport and vehicles parked curbside or entering secured areas.

The teams are also available to check aircrafts, passenger vehicles, buses, cargo trucks, unattended suitcases, suspicious items, checked baggage, shipped cargo and any suspicious incidents or areas that may require screening.