Sheriff Joseph Roybal is proud to announce the acquisition of K9 Amp, an explosives detection canine— the first of his kind for the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office.
K9 Amp is partnered with Deputy David Glenn, who has served the Sheriff’s Office for nearly 13 years and has been a member of the Regional Explosives Unit since 2023.
Explosives detection dogs are specially trained to provide clear, passive alerts when they detect the odor of explosives. Rather than barking or scratching, they sit or lie down near the scent source, allowing handlers to safely investigate without disturbing potential explosive devices.
K9 Amp was originally purchased through the State Homeland Security Grant Program for Colorado’s South-Central Region for use by the Colorado Springs Regional Explosives Unit. His first handler was employed by the Colorado Springs Police Department.
Through a grant with Colorado’s South Central All-Hazards Homeland Security Region, the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office is currently working to purchase and upfit a specialized vehicle for Deputy Glenn and K9 Amp, ensuring their equipment and operational needs are fully met.
Sheriff Roybal expressed his appreciation for the strong regional partnerships that made this transition possible.
“I want to sincerely thank the Colorado Springs Police Department and the Department of Homeland Security for their continued partnership and commitment to public safety,” said El Paso County Sheriff Joseph Roybal. “Keeping and growing regional assets like K9 Amp here in the Pikes Peak region strengthens all of law enforcement. When we invest in shared resources, we enhance our shared ability to protect our communities, respond to threats, and ensure the safety of residents and visitors alike.”
Get to Know K9 Amp
- Age/Breed: 5-year-old Black Labrador Retriever
- Favorite Treat: Food — according to Deputy Glenn, Amp is a true “foodie.”
- Favorite Toy: A rubber Chuck-It ball
- Specialized Equipment: Heavy-duty working vest
Before joining the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office, K9 Amp had already completed approximately 1,700 hours of training since 2022. His specialized training includes advanced obedience and explosive odor recognition.
K9 Amp is certified through the National Police Canine Association (NCPA) and the ATF National Odor Recognition Testing (NORT) program.
He has been deployed more than 50 times on missions ranging from sweeps for VIPs and dignitaries, including POTUS and the Secretary of Defense, to event security for large gatherings such as parades and concerts, as well as post-blast investigations and bomb threats.
Together, Deputy Glenn and K9 Amp have completed more than 100 additional hours of training to prepare for their NCPA certification, which was completed March 12, 2026.
The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office is honored to welcome K9 Amp to the team and looks forward to the enhanced safety and security he will provide to the community.
