ATLANTA — The Atlanta Braves have welcomed a new Cobb County K-9 officer to their roster!
K-9 Champ joins the Cobb County Police K-9 department that provides explosive detection resources at almost every event at The Battery and Truist Park, the Braves announced Tuesday.
He replaces K-9 Lazer, who will be retiring after nearly eight years of dedicated service, which included over 400 explosive detection deployments, 111 of these being at Truist Park and The Battery.
Since the Braves moved to Cobb County in 2017, the Cobb County Police K-9 Unit has conducted nearly 400 explosive detection deployments at the venues, according to the announcement. The K-9s cost $10,500 each.
“We are beyond appreciative of the partnership with the Cobb County Police K9 Department that provides an extra layer of protection for everyone who steps onto the property,” said Jeremy Strife, the executive vice president of development at The Battery Atlanta, in the announcement. “However, this collaboration represents more than just a security measure; it symbolizes a shared commitment to fostering a sense of safety and well-being within our community.”
K-9 Champ will be handled by Officer Bultman, who was K-9 Lazer’s handler. Champ will work in the same capacity as his predecessor to ensure the safety of players, staff and fans at Truist Park and The Battery.
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