The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF) is set to receive a new K9 early next year, as investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the death of police dog Tyson.
Police Commissioner confirmed that following discussions with French authorities, arrangements have been finalised for the donation of an additional police dog.
“That meeting has culminated in the donation of a new K9 to the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force. So on the 26th of January, 2026, we will be seeing the handing over of a new K9,” Garde said during the RSLPF’s press conference on October 30.
In a press conference on October 30, the RSLPF, including Police Comissioner Verne Garde and police high command, made the announcement about receiving a new K9 dog. (Photo Credit: Kherim Nelson)
The commissioner noted that preparations are already underway to ensure a smooth transition, including additional training for handlers and the development of formal operational protocols for canine management.
“I have also made a bid for a formal form of transportation through the Office of the Permanent Secretary to facilitate the general transportation of the K9,” he said. “We have also set aside a budget and we are starting the construction of a new K9 facility at La Toc at the Police Training School.”
Meanwhile, the RSLPF continues to probe the death of K9 Officer Tyson, who died earlier this year under circumstances still under review. At the September police press briefing, officials disclosed that a toxicology report had ruled out rat bait poisoning. However, a series of more comprehensive tests are being arranged to assist investigators in determining the actual cause of death.
“Further testing is being arranged for that matter,” said Assistant Commissioner of Police Dr Mashama Sealy. “So when the results are received, a report will be given.”
Despite Tyson’s death, the RSLPF continues to operate an active K9 unit, which includes K9 Voyu, currently assisting in narcotics detection, search operations, and security duties.
Any third-party or user posts, comments, replies, and third-party entries published on the St. Lucia Times website (https://stluciatimes.com) in no way convey the thoughts, sentiments or intents of St. Lucia Times, the author of any said article or post, the website, or the business. St. Lucia Times is not responsible or liable for, and does not endorse, any comments or replies posted by users and third parties, and especially the content therein and whether it is accurate.
St. Lucia Times reserves the right to remove, screen, edit, or reinstate content posted by third parties on this website or any other online platform owned by St. Lucia Times (this includes the said user posts, comments, replies, and third-party entries) at our sole discretion for any reason or no reason, and without notice to you, or any user. For example, we may remove a comment or reply if we believe it violates any part of the St. Lucia Criminal Code, particularly section 313 which pertains to the offence of Libel. Except as required by law, we have no obligation to retain or provide you with copies of any content you as a user may post, or any other post or reply made by any third-party on this website or any other online platform owned by St. Lucia Times. All third-parties and users agree that this is a public forum, and we do not guarantee any confidentiality with respect to any content you as a user may post, or any other post or reply made by any third-party on this website. Any posts made and information disclosed by you is at your own risk.
