As the new Will County Courthouse continues towards completion, the Sheriff’s Office has been working closely with all county agencies and the various construction businesses to assure the safety of the building, its employees, and those who visit.   This week, Sheriff Mike Kelley announced that “Loki” would be added to the Sheriff’s Canine Unit in order to increase the security.

    Loki is a 2-year-old German shepherd and has been extensively trained in detecting explosives.  Lokie and his deputy handler will be on-duty, Monday through Friday, during courthouse hours.  They will not only be assigned to the main building of the courthouse, but they will be checking other associated buildings and the surrounding grounds and parking lot areas.

    Sheriff Mike Kelley stated, “The current Sheriff’s deputy canine handlers and their dogs do an outstanding job out on the streets.   Since bringing back the K-9 Unit in 2015, they have seized hundreds of thousands of dollars in illegal drugs.   With the new courthouse, updated and increased security measures are necessary.   It just makes sense to bring in Loki to help us with identifying any potential danger that may otherwise be missed.  We’re excited to have him join the team.”  

    Sheriff Kelley would like to thank Will County State’s Attorney Jim Glasgow for his generous donation in splitting the cost of Loki.  State’s Attorney Glasgow said, “When the Sheriff requested my assistance in purchasing a canine trained in detecting explosives in order to enhance safety in the new courthouse, I agreed without hesitation. Dogs provide solace and comfort in our personal lives, and high-tech protection to our law enforcement community. Having purchased K9s for seven local municipalities using money forfeited by criminals and at no cost to taxpayers, this was a natural fit. Loki will be a significant and valuable resource in protecting everyone at Will County’s new courthouse. “

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