Brookhaven's police force has a new four-legged officer on the streets.

The Brookhaven Police Department announced Monday, July 20, that K9 Recon, a Belgian Malinois, has joined the department's patrol ranks. Recon is trained in narcotics detection and patrol operations, including tracking suspects and missing persons, recovering evidence, conducting searches, and assisting with criminal apprehensions, according to the department.

Recon is paired with Officer Fikes, who previously handled K9 Bane before Bane's retirement in February 2026. The department said Recon completed his first certification in May 2026, officially marking his readiness for duty.

From Croatia to Brookhaven

Recon was born in Croatia on Jan. 28, 2024, and imported to the United States in February 2026 before being matched with Officer Fikes, according to a WSB Radio report on the department's announcement.

The Brookhaven Police Foundation, a nonprofit that funds equipment and training for the department, provided support toward Recon's purchase. The foundation has funded at least three K9s for Brookhaven police, including their training and care, according to its website.

Police Chief Brandon Gurley told the Brookhaven City Council in May 2026 that a K9 officer can cost close to $20,000 after purchase and training. That figure came during a discussion about the loss of K9 Chico, a 3-year-old Belgian Malinois euthanized May 8 after aggressive bone cancer.

Rebuilding the K9 unit

Recon's arrival comes after a difficult stretch for the department's K9 program. K9 Bane retired in February, and K9 Chico died in May. During his 1.5 years with the department, Chico was responsible for 19 arrests and the confiscation of more than $30,000 in illegal narcotics, Gurley told the council.

"Officer Castellanos and his family are taking it very hard, especially his young children," Gurley said at the May 12 council meeting, describing the bond between handlers and their dogs. "These dogs stay with the families when they aren't working, and there is a great attachment."

Recon now fills one of those vacancies.

What's next

The Brookhaven Police National Night Out Back to School Bash is scheduled for Tuesday, Aug. 4, at 6 p.m. at 1793 Briarwood Road NE.

Residents can reach the Brookhaven Police Department at 404-637-0600 for non-emergency inquiries.