Bartlesville K-9 Officer Helps Recover Stolen Tools

Bartlesville Police say one of its K-9 officers helped find stolen tools stashed near a construction site. The dog’s handler says the items were found in just a matter of minutes.

Thaddeus, the Bartlesville K-9, keeps busy when it comes to seeking a scent. His handler, Officer Luke Reeves, trains him often.

“He’s very nosed down, which means he keeps his nose on the ground looking for the odor that he wants to find,” said Reeves.

Police say Thaddeus was put to work when tools were reported stolen at the construction site of the new agricultural education building near the high school. Officers say similar crimes happened in the area before.

“He’s a pretty quick worker,” said Reeves.

Officers say Thaddeus found the right scent and within minutes, police were able to give the drills and batteries taken from the site back to the rightful owner.

“10 to 15 minutes later, I called the officer who was taking the report and told them, ‘Hey, send them this way,” said Reeves.

The department says the dogs play a crucial role in detecting things that humans cannot. There is plenty of praise for a job well done.

Police say the investigation into who took the tools is still underway.