K-9 Unit


The Muskegon County Sheriff’s Office K-9 unit consists of team Deputy James Ottinger and canine partner Blitz. 

Blitz was purchased from Vohne Liche Kennels in Denver, Indiana and was hand picked by his handler Deputy Ottinger. Blitz is a Belgian Malinois and is from the Netherlands. Deputy Ottinger and Blitz completed a six week basic K-9 Academy where they trained in the following areas. Narcotic detection (cocaine, meth, and heroin), tracking, area and building searches, evidence recovery, suspect apprehension, obedience, and handler protection. The team will continue to train locally and certify with National Association of Professional Canine Handlers. 

Deputy James Ottinger and his canine partner Blitz continue to participate in many hours of training to further their skills and maintain certifications.

The purchase and training of Blitz was funded by the Greater Muskegon Kennel Club. Blitz will receive basic medical care from Whitehall Pet Practice and dog food provided by Tri County Feed Service (Montague). We want to thank all of our partners who have assisted in the purchase and support of Blitz. 

Kennel Club

The K-9 team is utilized by the Muskegon County Sheriff's Office and other police departments across West Michigan.  The team has been successful in the following:

-Locating narcotics

-Tracking and locating evidence involved in crimes

-Tracking and locating suspects in crimes

-Tracking a missing elderly alzheimer subject

-Assisting police with clearing buildings, making it safer for the officer

-Searches in local schools

When Blitz is not working, he enjoys running and playing outside with family.

Our canine is a valuable asset in fighting crime and making our community safer.  The Muskegon County Sheriff's Office K-9 Team would not be possible without the following:

Funding from the Greater Muskegon Kennel Club

Vet services donated by Whitehall Pet Practice of Whitehall, MI

Food is supplied by Tri-County Feed Services of Montage, MI