York County Sheriff’s Office welcomes police service dog, Duke

​YORK – The York County Sheriff’s Office has announced the addition of a new member of its law enforcement team – Duke, a 1 ½-year-old German Shorthaired Pointer. He has been trained in narcotics detection and can locate heroin, cocaine, marijuana and methamphetamine. 

​Duke is assigned to Deputy Deion Hulse and the pair work one of the night shifts.
Duke’s name mirrors that of the name of the mascot for the York Public Schools.
Duke recently achieved a significant milestone by passing the State of Nebraska Narcotics Detection Certification, demonstrating his proficiency and readiness to assist in narcotics enforcement efforts.
Sergeant Taylor Samek, who oversees the canine program, expressed enthusiasm for the new addition. “Duke will be a valuable asset to our team. With his training and Deputy Hulse’s experience, we are better equipped to combat drug-related issues in our community. Our canine program has proven to be an effective tool in law enforcement and we look forward to the positive impacts Duke and Deputy Hulse will have.
“Duke is not only a skilled detector of narcotics but also a beloved companion to his handler and fellow officers. His training has prepared him for various scenarios, ensuring he plays a crucial role in maintaining public safety. The York County Sheriff's Office is committed to promoting a safe environment for its residents and will continue to implement innovative strategies to address drug-related crimes. The introduction of Duke is a vital step in enhancing the effectiveness of the office's drug enforcement efforts,” Sergeant Samek said.