Ellis County K9 officer retires, now lives with handler

ELLIS COUNTY – Retiring Ellis County Sheriff’s office K9 Officer Tripp was officially transferred into the ownership of his handler earlier this month in a unanimous vote by the Ellis County Commissioners.

It was noted Tripp’s owner Officer Klinton Valley has recently moved agencies, and is now working with the Midlothian Police Department.

According to Ellis County Sheriff Brad Norman, the department has a new K9 currently in training. 

Ellis County Sheriff  Department has one K9 team, but Norman said his plans are to eventually have one on each shift.

“K-9’s are an important part of the Ellis County Sheriff’s Office,” Norman said. 

“A Deputy with a K9 partner is a force multiplier on the street. 

“Our K9’s are all multidisciplinary in that they track, detect drugs and are trained in patrol work as well. 

“We look forward to adding to our K9 program in the future.”