Who's The Top Dog? Murrieta Police's K9 Trials Wrap For 2022

MURRIETA, CA — Over the weekend, Murrieta hosted its 5th annual K9 trials, allowing officers and dogs from across the nation to compete in the "Top Dog" competition.

In 2022, Kern County Sheriff's Department Deputy Andrew Bassett and his K9 partner Hero won the honor of "Top Dog," according to a news release from the Murrieta Police Department.

"This was well deserved by K9 Hero, set to retire soon," the department said.

Murrieta's K9 Lew, with his handler Officer Jacob Bock, claimed the 3rd place prize.

April 1-2, 60 law enforcement agencies from across California and Mexico competed against one another for the right to raise the top dog cup.

According to a spokesperson from the Kern County Sheriff's Department, the trials test a handler and his canine partner's skills and abilities in detection, evidence location, obedience, agility, building searches, area search and handler protection.

Of the coveted award, the Kern County department acknowledged the hard work of Bassett and Hero.

"We are very proud of our team and the hard work they put into working with their K9 partners," Kern County said in a recent news release.

This is likely Deputy Bassett's last year in the K9 unit, where he and Hero have worked together for six years.

"Our very own Officer Jacob Bock and K9 Lew worked hard as well and placed 3rd overall in Saturday's Patrol competition," Murrieta Police reported.

Lew and Officer Bock also earned 3rd place in the Evidence category of Friday's Detection Competition.

"K9 Lew is never too shy to accept a dog bone and ear scratches from the community," Bock said.