DATE: 08-19-2026
SUBJECT: Vanderburgh County Sheriff’s Office Welcomes New Narcotics Detection K9
RELEASE NUMBER: 2026-NR-0819
CONTACT: Major Matt Corn
AUTHORITY: Sheriff Noah Robinson
The Vanderburgh County Sheriff’s Office is pleased to announce the addition of its newest single-purpose narcotics detection canine, K9 Kora, who is partnered with Deputy Jeff Fentress. K9 Kora and Deputy Fentress recently completed and successfully passed the United States Police Canine Association (USPCA) narcotics detector trial, marking their certification as a narcotics detection team.
K9 Kora is an 18-month-old female Belgian Malinois and German Shepherd mix. Kora was acquired through grant funding provided by the United States Police Canine Association, AKC Reunite, and the Substance Abuse Council. K9 Kora and Deputy Fentress are assigned to the Evansville-Vanderburgh County Drug Task Force, where they will assist local and federal law enforcement agencies with narcotics investigations throughout Vanderburgh County.
“K9 Kora and Deputy Fentress provide our Drug Task Force with an additional resource to identify and locate dangerous narcotics in our community,” said Sheriff Noah Robinson. “Their training and certification will enhance our ability to support narcotics investigations and work alongside our local and federal law enforcement partners to combat the distribution of illegal drugs.”
K9 Kora is trained as a single-purpose narcotics detection canine and is certified to detect the odors of Fentanyl, Heroin, Methamphetamine, Cocaine, and Marijuana.
K9 Kora’s specialized training will provide investigators with an additional resource for locating illegal narcotics and disrupting the distribution of dangerous drugs throughout our community.
The Sheriff’s Office recognizes the contributions of retired veterinarian Dr. Don Cates and K9 Supervisor Sergeant Robert Schmitt, whose expertise, guidance, and dedication were instrumental in K9 Kora’s training and preparation for certification.
The Vanderburgh County Sheriff’s Office is proud to welcome K9 Kora to the team and looks forward to the positive impact she and Deputy Fentress will have in the ongoing effort to combat illegal narcotics throughout Vanderburgh County.
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