Sheriff's department buys a new K-9 canine

The Ventura County Sheriff's Foundation donated funds to purchase a K-9 to help detect drugs in jail facilities.

Ghera, a female Labrador retriever, was purchased in June and went into action in July. Her handler is Dep. Charles McDonald. McDonald and Ghera went through 120 hours of training together before starting their assignment.

The K-9 was needed to help prevent drugs from being smuggled into the jail system since a recent court decision has restricted strip searches.

Ghera will work at the pre-Trial Detention Facility, the Todd Road Jail, the Juvenile Justice Center, court holding locations and wherever inmates have access.

The Sheriff's Foundation sponsors a variety of fundraising events to help purchase equipment for the Sheriff's Department.

To join the foundation or for more information, please call (805) 504-8400 or visit www.vcsheriffsfoundation.com.