Fayette Co. welcomes K-9 Deputy Lobos

FAYETTE COUNTY, Texas (KXAN) - K-9 Deputy Lobos is the newest member on the force at the Fayette County Sheriff's Department.

The 2-year-old Belgian malinois -- imported from the Czech Republic -- is Deputy Randy Thumann's new K-9 partner.

The American Society of Canine Trainers brought Lobos to the department after going through a six-month certification training. That included obedience, canine patrol tactics and narcotics detection.

"We're just proud to have him on our team now," said Lt. David Beyer. "Knight was an outstanding K-9, and hopefully, he'll be just as good."

Beyer said Lobos is Knight's replacement.

Fellow sheriff's deputies honored the fallen K-9 officer on Aug. 12, 2011 during a memorial service at headquarters, where he was be buried after he died because of the heat.

The 2-year-old police dog collapsed while chasing a suspect in Bastrop County on Aug. 8, 2011 after suffering from heat exhaustion. Knight helped with several arrests and drug seizures throughout his career.

Meanwhile, Thumann is still getting acquainted to working with Lobos after spending the last couple of weeks with him in Virginia at the training facility.

Beyer said the potential for a successful track record for Lobos is there because he came from the same kennel as Knight.

Lobos began his patrol duties with Thumann this week, and authorities said he is a welcome addition to the team.

Beyer said Thumann and Lobos are valuable assets in the department's relentless pursuit of those involved in the illegal drug trafficking and criminal activity in Fayette County.