In a significant enhancement to bilateral law enforcement cooperation, the United States Embassy has delivered substantial equipment and facility upgrades to the Trinidad and Tobago Prison Service’s Canine Unit. The formal handover ceremony occurred on December 17 at the Youth Transformation and Rehabilitation Centre (YTRC), marking another milestone in the ongoing partnership between the two nations.
The equipment donation encompasses specialized tools including a Stihl mist blower with gas canister, Stihl brush cutter with harness, electric pressure washer, canine training equipment including flirt poles and Starmark fetch balls, Kong Classic toys in multiple sizes, and washable dog pads. These resources are designed to enhance the operational capabilities and animal welfare standards of the canine unit.
A notable achievement unveiled during the ceremony was the completion of a purpose-built whelping facility, constructed by Prison Service personnel using materials funded through US Embassy support. This new breeding infrastructure enables the unit to develop its own lineage of working dogs, reducing dependency on external procurement and creating potential for specialized training programs.
Further enhancements included the comprehensive refurbishment of two canine transport vehicles, significantly improving the unit’s mobility and operational readiness for various security scenarios.
The ceremony was attended by Prison Commissioner Carlos Corraspe alongside Deputy Commissioners Hayden Forde, Curtis Guy, and Elvin Scanterbury. The US delegation featured Kelley Whitson, Chief of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, accompanied by Saleem Boochoon and Nathan Johnson. Debbie Jacob, a longstanding advocate for prison rehabilitation initiatives, also participated.
Commissioner Corraspe highlighted the canine unit as “one of the pockets of excellence” within the prison system and emphasized the strategic importance of the international partnership. He reminded officers of their critical role in national security, urging continued pursuit of operational excellence.
Ms. Whitson reaffirmed her office’s commitment to sustained collaboration, while Mr. Boochoon praised the unit’s professional standards and expressed optimism about future joint initiatives.
Concurrently, the Prison Service launched a new rehabilitative program where YTRC residents receive instruction in canine care and treatment. This initiative provides practical vocational skills aligned with the center’s mission to prepare individuals for successful reintegration into society.