Marta Article: K9 Unit

MARTA Police get grant for more bomb-sniffing dogs

Published: Aug 3, 2009

Some federal money is going to the dogs in Atlanta, specifically, explosive-detecting canines for MARTA, the city’s mass transit system. As part of its economic recovery program, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) awarded a $685,980 grant to MARTA for two new canine teams and explosive detecting security-related equipment. MARTA was the only agency to receive 100 percent of its request, according to a MARTA press release.

The grant will pay the entire cost for MARTA’s bomb-sniffing canine teams including the police officers, training, vehicles, veterinary costs and team equipment.

The MARTA Police Department is a full-service police agency with 370 sworn officers and civilian employees, and one of only four U.S. transit police agencies in the U.S. to be accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA).

MARTA Police Chief Wanda Dunham said: “The addition of two highly specialized canine teams and new resources in the field will significantly strengthen our efforts to prevent terrorist threats and attacks.”

The grant will help protect “the safety and security of our customers, employees, and the public at large,” said MARTA General Manager/CEO Dr. Beverly A. Scott. “Because we are designated as a Tier One high risk facility by DHS, our partnership with the federal government is an invaluable asset to helping the MARTA Police Department function at its highest level.”

The grant comes from a federal program designed to fund projects and programs that will both strengthen national security and stimulate the economy.

By Diane Loupe Atlanta reporter for HelloMetro