K-9

The City of Norton Police Department's current K-9 program began in the spring of 2009. The K-9 unit assists with crowd control, warrant services, apprehension of fleeing suspects, building searches, handler protection, and tracking. The division is currently comprised of one K-9 Patrol Unit. K-9 Thor and his handler, Officer Joshua Parsons, make up this division with supervising Sergeant Rusty McReynolds. 

Officer Parsons obtained K-9 Thor in May 2022 at the age of 9 weeks. K-9 Thor completed certification in all aspects of patrol work on April 7, 2023 at the age of 12 months. K-9 Thor and Officer Parsons are certified through the International Police Work Dog Association and train regularly with Virginia State Police. If your group or organization would like a free demonstration, please contact the City of Norton Police Department at (276)679-1211.